Tiger Woods Had No Real Choice But To Miss The Masters
Stating the obvious is sometimes necessary.
Tiger Woods was doing everything in his power to get his game and body right enough to tee it up in next week's Masters. That opportunity flew out the window the moment he had to crawl out of his own car, literally. He was charged with two misdemeanors, including DUI with property damage, after turning over his SUV 13 days before opening tee shots would be hit at Augusta National.
It seems unbelievable, obvious, and very much ridiculous, to have to say that Woods made the correct choice in announcing he's stepping away from the game and seeking treatment, and therefore skipping out on the Masters. But, when we're discussing an athlete idolized across multiple generations, emphasizing the point feels necessary when some struggle to see this current version of Tiger Woods for what he is: a man and a father who needs help.
We're also talking about someone who has the law and future courtroom appearances to keep in mind. Woods was also charged with a DUI in 2017, and potential jail time isn't entirely off the table with his recent charges.
Tiger Woods is seen leaving Martin County Jail after being arrested for driving under the influence after a car crash on March 27, 2026 in Florida. (Photo by MEGA/GC Images)
Not long after Woods released his first statement since his recent car accident and subsequent DUI charge, Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley shared a statement of his own, offering full support to Tiger while also sharing that the five-time Masters winner wouldn't be attending next week's event.
"Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament fully support Tiger Woods as he focuses on his well-being," Ridley's statement began. "Although Tiger will not be joining us in person next week, his presence will be felt here in Augusta."
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On top of the speculation that Woods may try to tee it up in the tournament, he was also set to be in Augusta during tournament week to unveil a newly redesigned course in the area called The Patch. He was also expected to attend the Champions Dinner at Augusta National as well.
The golf tournament, a new golf course, and the dinner will go on without him. It's safe to say he'll gain much more during his hiatus from the game and the golf world as a whole while bettering himself.
Tiger Woods needs to focus on Tiger Woods, and he seems to be doing just that.