Tiger Woods has had a change of heart about his not guilty plea in the DUI case stemming from his car crash near his Florida home in March.
The 15-time Major champion, 50, was arrested on suspicion of a DUI on March 27 after he rolled his car while attempting to overtake a truck after driving at "high speeds" in his Land Rover.
Tiger initially pleaded not guilty to charges of driving under the influence, property damage, and refusal to submit to a lawful test.
However, the golf star will appear in court on Wednesday, September 2, for a change-of-plea hearing, according to court documents filed on Tuesday, September 1.
Tiger's attorney, Doug Duncan, filed a motion with the Martin County circuit court to change his plea, but the filing did not reveal what plea he intends to enter or if he has reached a deal with prosecutors.
Tiger's arrest
Tiger was jailed for eight hours before being released on bond after driving at "high speeds" and colliding with a pick-up truck towing a trailer as he attempted to overtake.
"This is a small two-lane road and there was no shoulder for this gentleman to get off but as he tried [to pull in] the Land Rover overtook, swerved to avoid a collision, and clipped the backend of the pressure cleaner apparatus [on the trailer], and [the car] rolled on the driver's door," Martin County Sheriff, John Budensiek, said at the time.
© Getty ImagesWhile Tiger was unhurt as he crawled out of the passenger door, according to Sheriff Budensiek, he appeared "lethargic" and exhibited "signs of impairment."
On the scene, investigators asked him to complete several tests, including a breathalyzer for which he "blew triple zeros," but "when it came time to ask for urine analysis, he refused." Declining to take a urine test is a misdemeanor state violation.
"The DUI investigators came to the scene and Mr Woods did exemplify signs of impairment," Sheriff Budensiek said.
© Martin County Sheriff's Office"They did several tests on him. He did explain the injuries and surgeries that he’s had and we did take that into account, but they did some in-depth roadside tests.
"When it was determined, he was placed under arrest and taken to the Martin County jail. At the Martin County jail, and even on scene, we were really not suspicious of alcohol being involved in this case and that proved to be true."
He added: "Mr Woods did a breathalyser test with triple zeros, but when it came time for us to ask for a urinary analysis test, he refused and so he has been charged with DUI, property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test."
© Getty ImagesTiger retreats from the spotlight
Tiger announced that he was stepping back from public life after the incident, in a statement posted to X that read: "I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today. I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health. This is necessary in order for me to prioritize my well-being and work toward lasting recovery."
"I've committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger, and more focused place, both personally and professionally," he continued.
© Getty Images"I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones and myself at this time."
Tiger then spent time at a rehab facility in Switzerland before returning home in June and has kept a low profile since.
