Woods declines US Ryder Cup captain role in 2027

Tiger Woods reported to authorities that he was checking his phone while switching radio stations before a collision with a truck last Friday. The PGA of America confirmed he has stepped down from the United States Ryder Cup captaincy for 2027, set to be held in Ireland.

Woods, aged 50, was apprehended and charged with DUI following a car accident in Florida where he struck a truck and rolled his vehicle on Friday. Alongside DUI charges, he faced accusations of property damage and refusing to comply with a breath test. On Tuesday, his legal team filed a not guilty plea on his behalf.

After the incident, Woods, a 15-time major winner, stated he is taking a break from professional golf to focus on health and undergo treatment. A judge has permitted him to pursue treatment abroad.

“We commend Tiger for prioritising his long-term health and deeply respect the courage it takes to make such a personal decision,” the PGA of America said.

The PGA of America also expressed full backing for Woods and expressed sincere hope for his recovery, stating they will provide additional updates on the captaincy role as needed.

Woods has competed at the Ryder Cup eight times for the USA, beginning in 1997 and concluding in 2018. However, he has only secured a victory in the biennial event once, during the 1999 Brookline showdown.

The 2027 Ryder Cup between the US and Europe will take place at Adare Manor in County Limerick, Ireland, from 17-19 September. Keegan Bradley led the US team at Bethpage Black last year, making Woods a strong contender for the 2027 role.

Recently, when questioned about the captaincy, Woods indicated he was still considering his options. Luke Donald’s third term as European captain for 2027 was confirmed last month.

Authorities discovered two white pills in Woods’ pocket after the crash, identified as hydrocodone—an opioid used for pain relief. Officers noted he appeared “lethargic and slow” while “sweating profusely” and had “extremely dilated” pupils, suggesting impaired normal faculties.

Since a major road accident in 2021, Woods has undergone several surgeries and has maintained a limited playing schedule. A Florida judge on Wednesday approved his request to leave the country for treatment at a specialized inpatient facility.

“Doctors have recommended an ‘intensive, highly individualised and medically integrated programme’ for the golfer, away from media and public scrutiny,” said his attorney Douglas Duncan. “The urgent level of care Woods needs cannot be safely delivered in the US, as his privacy has been repeatedly compromised.”