Tiger Woods returns to social media on Memorial Day: ‘We all say thank you’

Tiger Woods has made his return to social media, marking his first public post since he stepped away to seek professional help following his recent DUI arrest.

Honoring a Veteran

The 50-year-old golf icon utilized his Instagram Stories on Memorial Day to share a touching tribute to his late father, Earl Woods. Earl, who passed away in 2006 at the age of 74, was a Special Forces operator who served two tours in Vietnam during his 20-year military career.

“My father was a Special Forces operator with two tours in Vietnam and 20 years of service,” Tiger Woods wrote. “To all those like my father, we all say thank you for your sacrifices. Without them we wouldn’t have the greatest country on Earth.”

Path to Recovery

This holiday post comes as Woods completes a six-week stint in treatment. Following his arrest in March and a subsequent not-guilty plea in Martin County Circuit Court, Woods announced he was stepping away to prioritize his health.

At the time of that announcement, Woods shared his commitment to long-term recovery: “I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today. 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.”

He added, “I’m committed to taking the time needed to return to 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.”

A History of Challenges

Woods has faced a difficult road over the last several years, characterized by both physical injuries and legal hurdles. These include a 2017 arrest on suspicion of DUI and a severe 2021 vehicle accident in which his SUV flipped multiple times, resulting in open fractures that required extensive surgical intervention.