New York Mets legend Darryl Strawberry, who memorably battled drug and alcohol addiction during and after his playing days, has a harsh warning for Tiger Woods.
“I’m looking at a person that is deeply hurting inside and if he continues to go down the road it’s going to kill him, if he doesn’t surrender his life to God,” Strawberry, 64, told the Palm Beach Post in a story published Thursday, April 2. “And he’s going to keep going back into that dark hole to try to fill that empty void.”
Woods, 50, was arrested and charged with DUI, property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test on March 27 after being involved in a car accident in Jupiter Island, Florida. He pleaded not guilty to all charges and has since revealed that he will step away from golf and seek treatment.
Strawberry said he sees similarities between himself and the legendary golfer.
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“Just like me, hurting and got addicted and the addiction took over,” Strawberry said. “It’s a serious addiction problem. Not one to play with anymore. He’s nearly lost his life two times.”
Woods has dealt with substance abuse problems in the past, seeking treatment in 2017 after another DUI arrest. He later suffered multiple injuries in a rollover car crash in 2021, but no charges were filed at the time.
“A lot of times people don’t know what addiction is really like, and how powerful it is,” Strawberry continued. “It’s very controlling and what it has done to him. The enemy is trying to kill him. He tried to kill me.”
Strawberry added, “It killed Elvis, it killed Prince, Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson. Once you continue to go down those roads, you think to yourself that it’s not going to really affect me like it did them. Yes, it is.”
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He also identified with Woods as a sports icon who, despite his massive trophy case, is still mortal.
“He is Tiger Woods and he has been so successful,” Strawberry said. “But he’s a human being, too. And he’s got shortcomings, just like all the rest of us. And … he has to play it out in the public eye, just like I did. … He’s had several accidents where he could’ve killed himself. It’s very sad because he’s an American hero and for him to be where he’s at, and whatever’s really hurting.”
Woods broke his silence on his arrest on Tuesday, March 31, taking to X to thank fans for their support and share his treatment plans.
“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” he wrote. “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’m committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger, and more focused place, both personally and professionally. I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones and myself at this time.”
