Tiger Woods Plea: Golf Legend Set To Change ‘Not Guilty’ DUI Plea to Reckless Driving
Golf icon Tiger Woods, 50, is slated to change his plea to guilty of reckless driving today, September 2, 2026, in a Florida DUI case. The charges stem from a March 27 rollover crash on Jupiter Island where Woods admitted to distracted driving and was found with two hydrocodone pills.
Golf legend Tiger Woods is set to appear in a Martin County circuit court this morning, Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at 8:30 AM ET, where he is expected to change his 'not guilty' plea in a driving under the influence (DUI) case to a lesser charge of reckless driving. The hearing marks a significant step in resolving the charges that arose from a rollover crash near his Florida home earlier this year. Tiger Woods Car Accident: Golf Legend Arrested and Charged With DUI After Car Collision in Florida (Watch Videos).
Woods, 50, was arrested on Friday, March 27, 2026, after his Land Rover clipped a truck and overturned on Jupiter Island near 281 South Beach Road. According to an arrest affidavit, Woods told deputies at the scene that he was distracted by his cell phone and changing the radio station when he failed to notice the slowing vehicle ahead of him. He managed to crawl out of the passenger side of his vehicle without injuries.
Details of the Incident and Arrest
Deputies observed Woods exhibiting several signs of impairment at the crash site, including profusely sweating, bloodshot and glassy eyes, extremely dilated pupils, lethargic movements, stumbling, swaying, and persistent hiccups. Although a Breathalyzer test administered by authorities registered zero alcohol in his system, Woods refused to submit to a urine test. Two hydrocodone pills, an opioid prescribed for severe pain, were reportedly found in his pocket. Woods later stated he had taken "a few" prescription medications earlier that day.
Initial charges against Woods included DUI with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test, both misdemeanors under Florida law. Following his arrest, Woods released a statement acknowledging the seriousness of the situation and announced he would step away from golf to seek treatment and focus on his health, a decision he described as crucial for his "lasting recovery."
The Expected Plea Agreement
The change-of-plea hearing at the Martin County Courthouse, approximately 40 miles north of West Palm Beach, is anticipated to involve Woods pleading guilty to reckless driving. This plea is expected to be part of a first-time DUI offender diversion program, which typically includes several conditions to avoid jail time. Tiger Woods Arrested on DUI Charges After Rollover Car Crash in Florida.
Key Aspects of the Diversion Program:
- Probation: 12 months
- Fine: $250 plus court costs
- DUI School: Mandatory completion
- Community Service: 20 to 50 hours (sources vary)
- Victim Impact Workshop: Attendance required
- Drug Testing: Subject to random drug and alcohol testing during probation
- Outcome: If all conditions are met, the reckless driving conviction could be expunged.
Woods' attorney, Doug Duncan, has not provided additional details regarding the nature of the plea change. This case marks a challenging period for Woods, who has faced multiple personal and professional hurdles throughout his illustrious career, including several vehicular incidents and battles with pain management.
The resolution of this case through a diversion program underscores the legal system's approach for first-time offenders who take responsibility for their actions. Woods' continued focus on his health and recovery remains paramount as he navigates these personal challenges.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 02, 2026 10:52 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).