Tiger Woods has maintained a low profile following his DUI arrest in March, but a recent video message has sparked concern among fans. Woods appeared in a pre-recorded video during the Payne Stewart Award ceremony to congratulate Notah Begay on his achievements in golf and his contributions to Native American communities.
“You first came into my life when I was 11 years old, playing in the junior world and you came to watch me play. Our friendship has started there and never ended,” Woods said. “To see what you’ve done off the golf course – I know you’ve won four times on the tour, playing in the President’s Cup. …But to see what you’ve done off the course and for your local Native American communities, you’ve helped over 80,000 youths and their families, which is absolutely incredible. What an amazing job at the sports complex in San Felipe.”
Begay was honored with the Payne Stewart Award, which recognizes character, sportsmanship, and contributions to the community by the PGA Tour. In his video, Woods praised Begay’s philanthropic efforts, saying more people should know about his work with tribal lands.
“You’ve done an amazing job,” Woods continued. “I just think more people need to know what you’ve done and how you’ve served, and you’ve given back to the tribal lands and what you have done. There are so many people out there who are struggling in those communities and you’re trying to raise the bar to allow them to go on and achieve a lot more in life and have the successes that I think they deserve and you feel they deserve.”
Woods added appreciation for the friendship he shares with Begay, closing with sentiments of love and gratitude. Despite the heartfelt message, Woods’ appearance in the video left some fans worried. On social media, some noted that he looked different, with comments like “Geez, Tiger doesn’t look so good” and “Tiger looks a shell of his former self sadly.” Others were more supportive, hoping he was off medication and returning to normal.
Woods faced legal trouble after another rollover car crash in Jupiter Island, Florida, leading to his arrest on DUI charges. Officers reportedly found opioid pills during the incident. After the arrest, he entered a rehabilitation center in Switzerland, and reappeared in May for Begay’s award ceremony.
Earlier, Woods had introduced PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp at a key news conference for the golf organization. His return marked the first appearance since treatment, noting his leadership role on the Tour’s Future Competition Committee. Woods faces a court appearance for his DUI charge on September 8.