Tiger Woods’ recent DUI arrest has shaken the golf world, and one of the game’s legends is calling on the 15-time major winner to make some serious changes.
Nick Faldo, the golfer-turned-broadcaster, spoke with reporters on a Thursday call, according to the Independent, and said Woods has to now take “responsibility” for the car crash in Florida last week.
“There are two sides to this right now. There’s one side, let’s care for Tiger, and then there’s got to be a responsibility and accountability side as well.,” he said.
“This is a serious thing and issue he’s done. The PGA Tour statement was so predictably weak. And you know how they show that, the Tour will look after him as they always have done.
“There has to be some accountability, forget about golf and everything.”
Woods, 50, was arrested in Jupiter Island last week after his Land Rover flipped over and clipped a Ford F-150 landscaping truck that was parked.
The golf icon, according to police bodycam footage, told officers that he ” ooked down at my phone and boom.” The video also revealed that Woods talked with President Donald Trump after the crash. He also\ told officers he was “hoping to” compete in April’s Masters, which he will not be.
Earlier this week, he pleaded not guilty to charges of driving under the influence with property damage and refusing a lawful test. Woods allegedly told officers during his arrest that he had taken “a few pills” the morning of the crash.
Hours after his plea, Woods revealed he was stepping away from golf to focus on his personal life.
“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” he wrote in a statement shared on social media Tuesday. “I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health. This is necessary in order for me to prioritize my well-being and work toward lasting recovery.
“I’m committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger, and more focused place, both personally and professionally. I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones and myself at this time.”
Faldo said many of the issues for Woods, including a 2021 car wreck in which Woods suffered an open fracture, are his own doing.
“I feel sorry for Tiger, he’s living 24/7 in pain,” Faldo said. “I asked him that years ago, even before the LA accident [in 2021], but it’s all been self-inflicted. … I think something should be done and a little bit more seriously than waving him off to a tropical island and saying, ‘welcome back’ in three or four months.”
