Jason Day calls Tiger Woods “a little bit selfish” after crash and DUI arrest

Jason Day has labelled Tiger Woods “a little bit selfish” after his car crash and DUI arrest.

Despite their friendship — with Day calling Woods his “hero” — the Australian admitted he cannot fully understand his actions behind the wheel.

Speaking on Monday after a practice round at Augusta National Golf Club ahead of The Masters, Day expressed both sympathy and concern for the 15-time major champion. 

"When I look at that, I look at it and go, he's just a human being like everyone else and we have struggles. It's unfortunate," Day told reporters ahead of The Masters. 

However, he added: "The only thing that I don't understand is that it's a little bit selfish of him to drive and put other people in harm's way, as well."

Watch Day's comments in full here: 

Day also reflected on Woods’ long history of injuries and surgeries, acknowledging the challenges that can come with recovery and pain management.

"He's not immune to it just because he can hit a golf ball really well," said former world number one Day. 

"He's had 25- to 30-something surgeries, and when you're going through that many procedures, it's painful coming out of those procedures.

"I've had procedures done and I typically try and stay away from all that stuff because I just know that… painkillers, there can potentially be a downfall to it."

The 2015 PGA champion admitted it has been difficult to watch Woods go through his ongoing struggles.

"Some people want him to fail," continued Day. "Some people obviously want him to succeed. It's really difficult for me to go through that and watch him, and I know that he's getting the help now, which is good. I'm just hoping he comes out on the other side and is better."

Woods, 50, was arrested on 27 March following a two-vehicle crash in Jupiter Island, Florida. 

The golf legend now faces charges including DUI with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test, having passed a breath test but declined a urinalysis.

A search of Woods’ pocket reportedly uncovered hydrocodone, a powerful opioid painkiller.

The incident marks the second time since 2021 that Woods has been involved in a crash in which his vehicle rolled over, and the second time since 2017 he has faced DUI-related charges.

Day suggested Woods’ mentality as one of the game’s most dominant figures may be a contributing factor.

"But when you're the player that he was and how strong-willed he is, he thinks he can do almost anything, and that's probably why he's probably driving and a little bit under the influence," Day said.

Reports indicate Woods, who will miss out on The Masters, has since travelled to Switzerland to seek treatment, with his private jet landing in Zurich earlier this month.

Day reiterated the deep admiration he still holds for Woods despite the situation.

"He was my hero. He's my hero. He was my hero growing up," Day said. 

"The reason why I play golf is because of this tournament and Tiger. It's hard to see him go through what he's going through, and especially under the microscope that … it must be hard to be who he is and have everything, everyone look on, kind of down on him."