Tiger Woods' legal case takes another twist after latest court ruling

Martin County prosecutors have been given the go-ahead to obtain Tiger Woods' hospital records as part of their ongoing DUI case following his car crash in March.

Judge Darren Steele approved the state's request on 23 June to subpoena records from Cleveland Clinic Martin South Hospital, where Woods, 50, was taken after his rollover crash on 27 March.

According to court filings, prosecutors are seeking records documenting any statements Woods made regarding alcohol or drug use, the results of any drug screening carried out that day and details of the medical staff involved in his treatment. 

The ruling follows an earlier order in May granting prosecutors access to Woods' prescription records.

Court documents state Woods was transported to the hospital for medical clearance after the crash before being discharged and returned to the Martin County Jail.

The 15-time major champion was arrested by Martin County Sheriff's deputies on charges of DUI involving property damage and refusing to submit to a DUI test. He was also issued a citation for careless driving.

According to the arrest affidavit, Woods told investigators he had not consumed any alcohol before the crash but confirmed he had taken prescription medication earlier that morning. 

When asked what medication he was taking, Woods replied: "I take a few," before listing medication for high blood pressure, cholesterol, ibuprofen and Vicodin.

Deputies reported Woods was "sweating profusely" while speaking with investigators. 

After removing his sunglasses for field sobriety exercises, officers observed that his eyes were glassy and bloodshot, while his pupils were described as "extremely dilated."

Following additional roadside tests, investigators concluded Woods' "normal faculties were impaired, and he was unable to safely operate the motor vehicle," according to the affidavit. 

Deputies also reported finding two hydrocodone pills in his pocket after placing him under arrest.

Despite the impairment allegations, Woods twice recorded a blood-alcohol reading of 0.00 on breathalyser tests conducted at the Martin County Jail.

Court records also show prosecutors and Woods' legal team agreed to a protective order restricting access to the hospital records to prosecutors, designated law enforcement officers, expert witnesses and the defence.

A status hearing in the case has been scheduled for 4 August.

Shortly after his arrest, Woods was granted permission to travel overseas to begin comprehensive inpatient treatment. 

He has since returned to Florida and was seen in public last week while addressing attendees ahead of the PGA Tour's announcement of major schedule changes due to take effect in 2028.

There remains no timetable for Woods' return to competitive golf. He is not expected to play at this month's Open Championship at Royal Birkdale, meaning it will soon be two years since his last Tour appearance at The Open at Royal Troon in July 2024.