TGR Foundation breaks silence as Tiger Woods steps away from the sport after DUI arrest

Tiger Woods’ nonprofit charity organization, the TGR Foundation, has issued its first public statement following the golf legend’s announcement that he will be stepping away from the sport to focus on his health.

The foundation has expressed support for its founder Woods, 50, while reaffirming its commitment to empowering students and communities through education and STEAM-focused learning.

Woods was involved in a rollover car crash near his home in Jupiter Island, Florida, last Friday, and it led to a DUI arrest. 

Four days later, the golf legend confirmed he was taking time out for an extended period to seek treatment and focus on his health. 

"Our thoughts are with our founder as he takes the time needed to focus on his health," read a statement from the TGR Foundation. 

"We remain committed to serving our students and communities while advancing our mission through our TGR Learning Labs and national programs."

The statement appeared to underscore the foundation’s commitment to continuing its great work, despite Woods stepping away from the sport.

Founded by PGA Tour superstar Woods in 1996, the TGR Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering students from under-resourced communities through education, STEAM-powered learning, and career readiness.

It currently operates two physical TGR Learning Labs in Anaheim and Philadelphia, with new locations planned for Los Angeles (2027) and Augusta (2028).

Tiger Woods out of The Masters

Woods revealed on Monday that he will miss out on The Masters next week, following a rollover car crash near his home on Jupiter Island, Florida, which also resulted in a DUI arrest. 

He had been looking to return to competition for the first time since missing the cut at The Open in July 2024. 

Woods has been battling back after multiple surgeries.

He had surgery to repair a left Achilles tendon in March 2025, then six months later underwent the seventh back surgery of his career. 

Woods had targeted The Masters as a possible return date in his schedule, but that is now no longer possible following last Friday's shock incident. 

The 15-time major champion took to his social media channels to confirm he is now stepping away from the game to seek some help. 

"I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today," wrote Woods. 

"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."

The PGA Tour has since issued a statement.

Woods is not only a longstanding member of the PGA Tour, but he is a member of the PGA Tour policy board, a role he has assumed since August 2023.

He is also the vice-chairman of the circuit's for-profit entity PGA Tour Enterprises, as well as the chairman of the PGA Tour's future competition committee where he is charged with re-shaping the playing schedule. 

"Tiger Woods is a legend of our sport whose impact extends far beyond his achievements on the course," read the Tour's statement. 

"But above all else, Tiger is a person, and our focus is on his health and well-being.

"Tiger continues to have our full support as he takes this important step."

PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp added: "Tiger Woods is one of the most influential figures the sports world has ever known.

"Over the last year, I have come to deeply appreciate Tiger not only for his impact on the game, but for his friendship and the perspective he has shared with me as I joined the golf industry.

"My thoughts are with him and his family as he takes this step, for which he has my full respect and support."

After learning of Woods' absence from Augusta National next week, the club's chairman Fred Ridley commented: "Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament fully support Tiger Woods as he focuses on his well-being. 

"Although Tiger will not be joining us in person next week, his presence will be felt here in Augusta."

It came to light earlier on Monday that Woods has submitted a written plea of not guilty via his lawyers. 

According to the police report, the former world number one had two hydrocodone pills in his pocket and was acting “lethargic and slow” while “sweating profusely” after the collision. 

Investigators also noted he was “hiccuping” while speaking at the scene and had to crawl out of the passenger side of his vehicle.

Woods passed a breathalyser test but refused a urinalysis. 

When asked about prescription medication, he reportedly answered, "I take a few." 

He told officers he was looking at his phone to change radio stations just before the crash, which involved a truck towing a trailer slowing into a driveway on Beach Road. 

Woods was held in custody for eight hours before being released on bail.

He faces charges including DUI, property damage, and refusal to submit a lawful test. 

Woods' first court appearance is scheduled for Thursday 23 April, though he does not need to attend.