Woods Declines U.S. Ryder Cup Captaincy Amid Treatment
Tiger Woods formally turned down the U.S. Ryder Cup captaincy on Wednesday while stepping away from golf to focus on his health. The decision follows his arrest on suspicion of driving under the influence and a car crash last week near his Jupiter Island, Florida, home. Woods entered a not guilty plea and plans inpatient treatment outside the United States.
Woods' SUV clipped the back of a trailer and flipped on its side on a residential road. His attorney filed a motion Wednesday requesting permission to travel abroad for comprehensive inpatient care, citing privacy concerns and medical recommendations. A Martin County judge approved the motion without disclosing the facility's location.
The PGA of America issued a statement supporting Woods. "The PGA of America stands in full support of Tiger Woods as he steps away to focus on his health and well-being," it said. "We commend Tiger for prioritizing his long-term health and deeply respect the courage it takes to make such a personal decision." Woods had informed the organization of his decision not to serve as captain.
Woods released a statement Tuesday night announcing his indefinite break. "I’m committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger, and more focused place, both personally and professionally," he said. This marks the second time Woods has declined the role; he waited until early summer 2024 to bow out for the 2025 matches at Bethpage Black on New York's Long Island, paving the way for Keegan Bradley's selection.
The biennial Ryder Cup pits the United States against Europe, with the visitors winning the past two editions in 2021 and 2023. Luke Donald has agreed to captain Europe for a third consecutive time, a feat no previous skipper has achieved. Three U.S. Ryder Cup committee members — Justin Thomas, Jordan Spieth and Bradley — compete this week in the Masters, golf's first major of the year.
