PGA Tour star Jason Day did not mince words about Tiger Woods following the golf superstar’s DUI arrest last month.
“When I look at that, I go, ‘He’s just a human being like everyone else and we have struggles.’ The only thing that I don’t understand is that it’s a little bit selfish of him to drive and put other people in harm’s way, as well,” Day, 38, told reporters at the Masters Tournament on Monday, April 6.
He continued, “But when you’re the player that he was and how strong-willed he is, he thinks he can do almost anything. That’s probably why he’s probably driving and a little bit under the influence.”
Day called Woods — who was arrested in Jupiter Island, Florida, on March 27 — his “hero growing up,” which made things extra complicated to process.
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“The reason why I play golf is because of this tournament and Tiger,” he explained. “It’s hard to see him going through what he’s going through, especially under the microscope. It must be hard to be who he is and have everyone looking kind of down on him. Some people want him to fail, some people obviously want him to succeed. It’s really difficult for me to go through that and watch him.”
Day added, “I know that he’s getting the help now, which is good. I just hope he comes out on the other side and is better.”
Woods’ private jet was seen landing in Switzerland on Friday, April 3, where he plans on undergoing treatment. At the time of his arrest, Woods had had two hydrocodone pills in his pocket and his eyes were “bloodshot and glassy,” according to an arrest warrant obtained by Us Weekly.
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“It just shows the human element and the human side of someone that is struggling with some sort of an addiction,” Day said of Woods. “He’s not immune to it just because he can hit a golf ball really well. He’s had 25 to 30-something surgeries, and when you’re going through that many procedures, it’s painful coming out of those procedures. I’ve had procedures done and I typically try and stay away from all that stuff because I know there can potentially be a downfall to it.”
While being questioned by police, Woods said he has undergone seven back surgeries and over 20 operations on his leg.
Woods was charged with DUI with property damage and refusal to submit to a BAL test after he refused to provide a sample of his urine to authorities. He has pleaded not guilty.
“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” Woods said in a statement shared via X on March 31. “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.”
