Tiger Woods may be one of the biggest names in golf, but authorities say his case will be handled like any other. Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek made it clear that Woods will face the legal process after his recent arrest following a crash in Florida.

Woods is currently in custody and, under Florida law, must remain there for a minimum period before he can be released on bail. Budensiek said the rules will apply the same way, no matter who the person is.

“He’s not going to be with other inmates that could hurt him or try to capitalize on what he did,” Budensiek said. “He’ll pay the price, but he’s not going to pay the price by getting punished in jail.”

The incident took place Friday afternoon when Woods was driving on a two-lane road. Authorities said he tried to pass a pickup truck that was pulling a pressure cleaner trailer, and his vehicle overturned during the move. He was able to get out of the car from the passenger side.

Budensiek added that the road had a 30 mph speed limit, but officials could not confirm how fast Woods was going at the time. At the scene, officers noticed signs of possible impairment. However, they did not suspect alcohol. Woods later recorded 0.00 on a breathalyzer test but refused to take a urine test.

The sheriff also said Woods was cooperative during the process, though he did not answer questions that could incriminate him. No injuries were reported in the crash.

Tiger Woods keeps his playing options open for 2026

Even with everything going on, Tiger Woods has not completely ruled out playing this year. There is still a chance he could play at the 2026 U.S. Senior Open. His name was not in the first list released by the USGA, but he has entered the event to keep the option open.

“Tiger has entered the championship, simply to ensure eligibility,” a USGA spokesperson told Golf Digest. “But will not make a decision about playing until a later date.”

Tiger Woods turned 50 in December and is now eligible to play on the PGA Tour Champions. He has spoken before about playing on the senior tour especially since carts are allowed. He has not played a full event this season yet. He has been recovering from an Achilles injury and a back issue, and only recently returned through the TGL.

There were also signs he was getting ready to return. He was seen in golf clothes shortly before the accident which suggests he may have been practicing for the Masters.

Tiger Woods has not played an official event since the 2024 Open Championship. An Achilles injury in 2025 kept him out for months and he later had back surgery. For now, nothing is confirmed about when he will return. But he is still involved in the game and remains part of the PGA Tour’s Future Competition Committee.