AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) - Gary Player expressed understanding towards Tiger Woods regarding his use of medications to alleviate pain from a series of surgeries. However, the esteemed Masters champion firmly believes that Woods should refrain from driving. This statement comes in light of Woods' arrest on March 27 for suspicion of driving under the influence after his Land Rover collided with a trailer and overturned on a residential street. Florida authorities reported finding two painkiller pills in Woods' pocket, and he refused to submit to a urine test during the incident.
Player commented, "The human being is so critical of everything. If I or any of you in this room had the pain that Tiger Woods had, think of the excruciating pain that this man has been going through for a long time." He acknowledged Woods' struggles with sleep deprivation and the resulting need for medication but emphasized that driving under the influence of such substances is dangerous. “When you’re taking that medicine, it’s dangerous when you’re driving a car," Player asserted.
The 90-year-old golfing legend shared his views after hitting the honorary tee shots to commence the Masters tournament. Known for his disciplined diet and fitness regime, Player admitted that he no longer drives himself and instead opts for a chauffeur, highlighting a proactive approach to safety. "All he’s got to do is just not drive a car and get a chauffeur," Player advised.
This year, Woods, a five-time Masters champion, announced he would miss the tournament at Augusta National for a second consecutive year to prioritize his well-being and undergo treatment at an undisclosed facility outside the U.S. He made this announcement shortly after pleading not guilty to the DUI charge related to the crash.
Woods' medical history is extensive, with a litany of injuries over the last 14 years, including a reconstructive knee surgery in 2008 and four back surgeries performed between 2014 and 2017. In addition, he was arrested in 2017 for falling asleep behind the wheel due to a mix of painkillers. His right leg and ankle were severely injured in a car accident four years ago when his speeding SUV crashed in Los Angeles, leading to a total of seven surgeries, including an Achilles tendon repair and a recent back surgery in the past year.
Player noted, "My heart goes out for him. There’s nothing worse than living in pain every day of your life." He expressed hope that Woods could find a solution to his issues, recognizing the incredible impact Woods has had on golf. Many at Augusta National echoed Player's sentiments, empathizing with Woods while agreeing on the necessity of not driving while impaired. Jason Day, a former world number one and Woods' self-proclaimed hero, remarked on the selfishness of putting others at risk by driving under such conditions.
Day, who referred to Woods as an inspiration for his own career in golf, acknowledged the challenges of being in the public eye during difficult times, stating, "It’s hard to see him go through what he’s going through, and especially under the microscope." He expressed hope that Woods, now receiving help, would ultimately emerge better from his struggles.
