Bodycam footage reveals moments after rollover
Newly released body camera footage shows Tiger Woods speaking with law enforcement officers shortly after his SUV rolled onto its side in Jupiter Island, Florida. The video, obtained by The Associated Press, captures Woods approaching an officer while returning to the crash site along a nearby walking and biking path.
In the footage, Woods appears to place his cellphone into his pocket and tells an officer, “I was just talking to the president,” as he walks past. Authorities have not confirmed which president he was referring to.
Connections to former President Trump
Woods has maintained a longstanding relationship with Donald Trump. During Trump’s first presidential term, Woods was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States. Woods is also currently in a relationship with Vanessa Trump, the former wife of Donald Trump Jr.
Trump commented publicly on the incident, telling reporters he felt “so badly” for Woods and describing him as a close friend. Woods did not specify Trump’s name in the bodycam footage.
Details of the crash and legal charges
The footage, released by the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, also shows Woods performing field sobriety tests at the scene. During one test, an officer instructs him to return his hands to his sides after touching his nose with his eyes closed.
Authorities charged Woods, 50, with driving under the influence with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful urinalysis test. He has pleaded not guilty and requested a jury trial.
According to a motion filed in Florida court, Woods has been granted permission to travel outside the United States to undergo comprehensive inpatient treatment, citing privacy concerns if treatment were to occur domestically.
Crash circumstances and prior incidents
Investigators reported that the crash occurred when a Ford F-150 towing a trailer slowed to turn into a driveway. Woods, driving a Range Rover, attempted to maneuver around the truck by entering the opposite lane. His vehicle struck the trailer and rolled onto its side. Neither driver was injured.
Following the incident, Woods told officers he had briefly looked down at his cellphone while adjusting the radio before the collision. The accident adds to a series of automobile-related incidents involving the golfer since 2009, which have impacted both his personal life and professional career.
The case remains ongoing as Woods prepares for legal proceedings and continues medical treatment related to the incident.