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What Tiger Woods said about his health shortly before his recent accident and DUI arrest

The golf legend's candid remarks about aging and recovery now frame the narrative of his latest setback.

Tiger Woods opened up about his health before the accident.
Tiger Woods opened up about his health before the accident.LAPRESSE
Updated

Tiger Woods had just spoken openly about his physical condition and recovery from back surgery when his comeback was abruptly interrupted by a rollover crash on Friday, March 27. The accident occurred only three days after Woods competed in the TGL finals, his first event of 2026.

In October 2025, Woods underwent lumbar disc surgery to address chronic pain and a collapsed disc. Specialists explained the procedure could provide significant relief, though rarely complete elimination of pain.

At a press conference on March 24, Woods admitted that while he "feels fine physically," returning to competition at age 50 presented new challenges.

"It doesn't recover like it did when it was 24, 25," Woods said, acknowledging the toll of repeated injuries. He added that he continues to fight through setbacks because of his love for the game and his desire to play in the Masters.

A different rhythm on the course

Woods described the unusual rhythm of tournament play after his long absence. "It feels like I'm getting iced a bit at times. It's just a different rhythm," he told reporters, comparing the experience to Ryder Cup matches where players can go long stretches without hitting a putt.

He admitted his return to golf felt unfamiliar:

I haven't really done this. I've been watching these guys do it. They make it look easy. I haven't done it in a while. It was a lot of fun, though, to be a part of it.

Tiger Woods

Crash clouds Tiger's comeback plans

The crash now casts uncertainty over Woods' comeback and his hopes of competing in the Masters. Details of the accident remain limited, but the timing underscores the fragility of his recovery.

Tiger Woods faces a battery of serious legal challenges following his arrest, as he was charged with DUI and property damage, which would result in up to 12 months in prison.

For fans and the golf world, Woods' own words about aging, resilience, and determination resonate even more strongly in light of this latest setback.

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