Jack Nicklaus offers support for Tiger Woods after driving arrest
Golfing great Jack Nicklaus has expressed deep concern for Tiger Woods, stating the 15-time major champion needs help following his arrest for driving under the influence in Florida last month.
The 50-year-old was detained after rolling his vehicle in Jupiter on 27 March and has since pleaded not guilty to charges including property damage.
Police officers found two hydrocodone tablets in his pocket after he refused to provide a urinalysis, despite passing a breathalyser test.
Nicklaus voices support for fellow champion
Speaking to the Palm Beach Post, the 18-time major winner admitted the wider sporting community is worried about the former world number one.
“I think he probably needs some help,” Nicklaus said.
“We all want to help him. We’re all on his side. Obviously, I feel bad for Tiger. I like Tiger. I don’t just like him, I like him a lot.”
The 85-year-old also noted the significant amount of pain medication the Californian has required during his career.
“He’s been taking painkillers for a long time. I don’t know how much pain he’s in because I just don’t know. But I don’t think he’d be taking them if he didn’t need them.”
Treatment programme and Masters absence
A Florida judge has recently approved a legal motion allowing the five-time Masters champion to travel outside the United States for an intensive medical programme.
The legendary sportsman has endured a heavily documented history of physical setbacks, undergoing seven back surgeries and rupturing his left Achilles tendon just last year.
He had previously expressed a strong desire to compete at the upcoming Masters tournament at Augusta National, which begins on 9 April.
However, the recent accident and his subsequent entry into a rehabilitation facility have ended any possibility of a return to the prestigious major.
