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(VIDEO) Tiger Woods Had Hydrocodone Pills in Pocket During Florida DUI Rollover Crash, Affidavit Reveals
Golf legend Tiger Woods was found with two loose hydrocodone pills — a prescription opioid — in his left pants pocket after a single-vehicle rollover crash that led to his arrest on suspicion of driving under the influence last Friday, according to a probable cause affidavit released Tuesday by Martin County authorities.
The new details, first reported by TMZ Sports and confirmed across multiple outlets, paint a fuller picture of the March 27 incident on a residential road in the affluent Jupiter Island community. Woods, 50, told deputies he was distracted by his cellphone and changing the radio station moments before his luxury Land Rover struck the rear of a work truck and flipped onto its side. No one was seriously injured, but the crash has reignited questions about the 15-time major champion’s ongoing battles with pain management, prescription medications and road safety.
Deputies described Woods as profusely sweating despite cool air in the vehicle, moving in a “lethargic and slow” manner, and showing “severe signs of impairment.” When he removed his sunglasses, officers noted his eyes were “bloodshot and glassy” with “extremely dilated” pupils. A breathalyzer test registered 0.00 for alcohol, but Woods refused a urine test under Florida’s strengthened implied consent law for suspected drug impairment, leading to an additional charge.
During a search incident to arrest, deputies discovered two white pills marked “M367” in Woods’ pocket. The imprint identified them as hydrocodone, an opioid commonly prescribed for severe or chronic pain. Woods acknowledged taking “a few” prescription medications earlier that morning when asked by investigators. The pills were seized and entered into evidence.
The affidavit adds to the narrative of a golfer whose body has endured years of punishing physical tolls from elite competition and multiple surgeries, including multiple back operations and a 2021 car crash in California that left him with severe leg injuries. Woods has been open in the past about relying on pain medication during recovery periods, but the presence of loose opioids during a driving incident has drawn sharp scrutiny.
Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek said at a news conference last week that investigators believed Woods was impaired by “some type of medication or drug” rather than alcohol. Woods was booked on misdemeanor charges of DUI with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test. He was released from jail overnight Friday after posting bond and has not yet entered a plea.
The crash occurred around 2 p.m. as Woods reportedly attempted to pass a pressure cleaner truck on a road with a 30 mph speed limit. He crawled out of the overturned vehicle through a window and was seen on his phone near the wreckage. Photos from the scene showed the Land Rover resting on its side with visible damage.
This marks Woods’ second high-profile DUI-related incident. In 2017, he was arrested in Florida after being found asleep at the wheel of his Mercedes. Toxicology reports at the time revealed five substances in his system, including the opioid hydrocodone (Vicodin), hydromorphone (Dilaudid), Xanax, Ambien and THC. Woods later pleaded guilty to reckless driving and completed a program addressing his issues with prescription medications.
Tuesday’s affidavit has prompted fresh discussion about prescription opioid use among athletes managing chronic pain. Hydrocodone is a Schedule II controlled substance with high potential for dependence. Medical experts note that while it can be legitimately prescribed, combining it with other medications or using it while driving can significantly impair judgment, reaction time and coordination.
Woods has been attempting a cautious comeback in 2026 after years of limited competitive play due to injuries. He participated in the TGL Finals earlier in the week, a tech-infused golf league event, and had expressed hope of competing at the Masters Tournament, which begins April 9 in Augusta, Georgia. His representatives have not commented publicly on the latest developments or his plans for the storied event, where he has won five green jackets.
PGA Tour officials and fellow players have offered measured responses, emphasizing support for Woods’ health while noting the seriousness of impaired driving. Some teammates in the TGL expressed concern over what one called “disturbing” recent events.
The incident also revives memories of Woods’ 2021 rollover crash in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, where his SUV veered off a winding road at high speed. He suffered compound fractures in his right leg and underwent extensive rehabilitation. An empty pill bottle was reportedly found in that vehicle, though no charges were filed related to impairment.
Legal analysts say the current case could hinge on field sobriety test performance, the deputy’s observations of impairment, the refused urine test and any eventual toxicology results if pursued. Under Florida law, refusal to submit to testing after a DUI arrest can lead to automatic license suspension and may be used as evidence in court.
Woods owns multiple properties in the Jupiter area, including a waterfront estate, and has deep ties to South Florida’s golf community. He has largely kept a low profile off the course in recent years, focusing on his children, business ventures such as his golf course design firm and the TGL league he co-founded with Rory McIlroy.
Public reaction on social media has been swift and divided. Some fans expressed disappointment and concern for Woods’ well-being, while others highlighted the potential dangers of driving while impaired by any substance. The story dominated sports headlines Tuesday, with the new affidavit details amplifying coverage of the Friday crash.
As of Tuesday afternoon, no court date had been set. Woods remains eligible to travel and compete pending resolution of the charges, though any conviction could carry consequences for his driving privileges and public image.
The golf world will watch closely how Woods navigates this latest chapter. His resilience through physical adversity has been well-documented, but repeated incidents involving driving and medications raise questions about long-term management of his health and lifestyle.
Martin County authorities have not released bodycam or dashcam footage, citing the ongoing investigation. The second driver involved in the crash was not injured and cooperated with investigators.
For a figure who transcended golf to become one of the most recognizable athletes globally, Tuesday’s revelations add another complex layer to a career marked by triumph, scandal, injury and remarkable comebacks. Whether this proves a minor legal hurdle or a more significant turning point remains to be seen as the legal process unfolds.
Woods’ team has historically emphasized privacy around medical matters. In past statements, he has credited surgery, physical therapy and mental focus for his recoveries while acknowledging the cumulative wear on his body from decades at the highest level of professional golf.
As spring arrives and the golf season intensifies toward the Masters, the focus for many will shift from Woods’ past glories to his present challenges — both on and off the course. Supporters hope for transparency, accountability and continued progress in addressing any underlying issues with pain and medication.
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