Tiger Woods Sparks Concern After Rare Appearance Following DUI Arrest

Former professional golfer Tiger Woods sparked worry among fans following a rare pre-recorded video appearance during the Payne Stewart Award ceremony on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, marking one of his few public messages since a March DUI arrest.

The 50-year-old golf icon appeared in a video aired on The Golf Channel to congratulate his longtime friend, Notah Begay III, on receiving the PGA Tour's 2026 Payne Stewart Award for his sportsmanship and community service.

Seated in a purple polo with visible facial hair, Woods addressed his decades-long friendship with Begay and praised his extensive philanthropic achievements on tribal lands.

"You first came into my life when I was 11 years old, playing in the junior world and you came to watch me play. Our friendship has started there and never ended," Woods said in the video message.

The 15-time major champion emphasized Begay's impact outside of his four PGA Tour victories and Presidents Cup appearances.

"To see what you’ve done off the golf course – I know you’ve won four times on the tour, playing in the President’s Cup. …But to see what you’ve done off the course and for your local Native American communities, you’ve helped over 80,000 youths and their families, which is absolutely incredible. What an amazing job at the sports complex in San Felipe," Woods said.

Woods continued his praise, noting the necessity of highlighting Begay's efforts for struggling communities.

"You’ve done an amazing job," Woods said.

He expanded on the significance of Begay's philanthropic work across tribal lands.

"I just think more people need to know what you’ve done and how you’ve served, and you’ve given back to the tribal lands and what you have done. There are so many people out there who are struggling in those communities and you’re trying to raise the bar to allow them to go on and achieve a lot more in life and have the successes that I think they deserve and you feel they deserve," Woods said.

Woods concluded his heartwarming tribute by expressing his personal appreciation for their lifelong bond.

"Again, thank you for coming to see my play. Thank you for getting our friendship started and I love you dude," Woods said.

Despite the positive nature of the message, fans on social media widely discussed his appearance, noting that he appeared thinner and looked noticeably different than expected.

The video message comes after Woods was involved in a single-vehicle rollover car crash on Jupiter Island, Florida, in March 2026. Officers arrested him on driving under the influence charges and allegedly found two opioid pills in his pocket.

Following the arrest, Woods pleaded not guilty to charges of DUI, property damage, and refusal to submit a lawful test before publicly announcing a temporary hiatus to enter rehabilitation.

"I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today," Woods said in a statement on X following his arrest.

He outlined his intentions to prioritize his health and recovery away from the public eye.

"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," Woods said.

Woods emphasized his commitment to returning to professional and personal life in better condition.

"I’ve 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," Woods said.

Woods traveled to Switzerland for treatment in April and returned to the United States in May. He subsequently resumed his role as chairman of the PGA Tour's Future Competition Committee, making brief appearances at the Travelers Championship in Connecticut in June and introducing PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp late last month. Woods is scheduled for a court appearance regarding his DUI charges on September 8.