Tiger Woods has long resisted hiring a driver, and according to a PEOPLE exclusive, that decision stems from a desire for privacy, even as his latest legal situation has renewed scrutiny around his personal choices.
The 50-year-old golfer was arrested on March 27 in Florida, and the incident has again raised questions about his driving.
Yet a source told PEOPLE that Woods continues to avoid outside assistance for personal and private life reasons.
“[Woods] doesn’t want anyone to watch over him or know what he is doing,” the source says. “And he thinks he is fine to drive.
“He is not a social butterfly and prefers to hang around his home with his kids, or hitting balls, or playing video games. He despises public scrutiny.”
The arrest followed a rollover crash involving Woods’ vehicle and another truck, and while authorities confirmed signs of impairment, they noted alcohol was not suspected, as testing later showed no presence during processing.
Officials, meanwhile, stated that Woods declined to submit to a further test, which led to an additional charge, and although he was cooperative during the interaction, the legal process moved forward based on observed impairment.
Woods’ crash threatens 2026 Masters appearance
Woods’ reluctance to hire a driver reflects a broader pattern, as he has consistently prioritized privacy, and sources indicate he prefers limiting outside visibility into his routine and movements.
That stance, however, contrasts with a documented history of driving incidents, including a serious 2021 crash in Los Angeles that required surgery, and an earlier 2009 accident that triggered widespread media attention.
In addition, a 2017 incident involving Woods being found in his vehicle led to legal consequences, and taken together, these events have repeatedly raised concerns about decision-making and safety behind the wheel.
Despite that history, Woods has continued to maintain independence in his personal life, and according to PEOPLE’s source, he remains resistant to oversight, even as scrutiny intensifies following each new development.
The latest crash involved a Land Rover and a utility vehicle with a trailer, and although no injuries were reported, the circumstances led to his arrest and several charges tied to impairment and refusal of testing.
Woods was later released after several hours in custody, and while authorities ruled out alcohol involvement, they acknowledged uncertainty regarding other potential factors due to the lack of additional results.
Away from the legal situation, Woods’ professional outlook remains uncertain, as injuries have limited his appearances, and his recent participation in a competitive event marked a rare return after an extended absence.
He has not ruled out playing at The Masters, yet his physical condition and current circumstances cast doubt, particularly given his limited schedule and ongoing recovery challenges.
The situation, therefore, highlights an ongoing balance, as Woods manages privacy, health, and performance, while his decision to avoid hiring a driver continues to draw attention within a broader pattern of scrutiny.
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