Additional Coverage:
Tiger Woods’ legal team is pushing back against a subpoena seeking his prescription medication records, invoking his “constitutional right to privacy.”
The golf icon, who has won 15 major championships, was involved in a serious car accident last month when his Land Rover flipped after colliding with a truck’s trailer during a last-minute passing maneuver. Woods now faces charges including driving under the influence with property damage and refusing to submit to a lawful test.
Woods’ future in competitive golf remains uncertain as he has stepped away from the sport to pursue treatment abroad following the crash. Meanwhile, concerns have been raised about fitness devices used by other top golfers, including Rory McIlroy at the Masters.
Florida prosecutors have requested Woods’ complete prescription history from January 1 through March 27 of this year as part of the ongoing investigation. Court documents reveal they seek detailed information on his medications-including dispensing dates, dosage instructions, and any warnings related to operating a vehicle.
However, in a motion filed on April 14, Woods’ attorney Douglas Duncan argued that his client’s privacy rights must be respected. Duncan acknowledged that these rights are “not absolute” but emphasized that the state must demonstrate the records’ relevance to justify breaching Woods’ privacy.
Duncan is also seeking a hearing to determine whether prosecutors can access Woods’ prescriptions held at Lewis Pharmacy in Palm Beach, Florida. He requested that if the subpoena is approved, a protective order be put in place to restrict access to the records strictly to law enforcement, state experts, and the defense team, preventing disclosure to third parties or the public without court approval.
Following the crash, police found two pills labeled M367-identified as hydrocodone, a potent opioid painkiller-in Woods’ pants pocket. Woods refused to provide a urine sample at the scene and admitted to taking “a few” prescription medications when questioned.
Days after his arrest, Woods released a statement acknowledging the gravity of the situation and announcing his decision to step away from golf to focus on treatment and recovery. His attorney successfully obtained court permission for him to travel abroad for this purpose.
“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” Woods said. “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.”