Golfers lament Woods' Masters absence after DUI
Tiger Woods will miss the 2024 Masters Tournament following his DUI arrest in Florida on March 27. Fellow players expressed regret over his absence at Augusta National, with Jason Day calling it unfortunate while emphasizing Woods' humanity. Patrick Reed and Bubba Watson also voiced support for Woods amid preparations for the major.
Woods faced charges of driving under the influence with property damage and refusal to submit to a blood alcohol test after a rollover crash in Jupiter Island. Bodycam footage captured him stating he hoped to play in the Masters. He later released a statement announcing he would step away from golf to seek treatment, pleading not guilty and requesting a jury trial.
A five-time Masters winner, Woods drew reactions from peers during practice rounds. Day, who grew up idolizing him, said Woods remains a human facing struggles and hoped he emerges stronger after getting help. Reed, a past champion, noted the absence of Woods and Phil Mickelson—who withdrew for a family health matter—hurts golf but prioritized their health. Watson focused on Woods as a person, not a golfer, pulling for him since they began associating around 2006 or 2007.
This marks Woods' second DUI arrest in a decade, following a 2017 incident in Jupiter Island involving prescription medications. Players prepare for one of golf's toughest tests at Augusta National without the 15-time major champion.
