Rusty Weiss
Golf legend Tiger Woods broke nearly two months of public silence on Memorial Day with a heartfelt tribute to his late father and the nation’s military heroes.
The 15-time major champion posted on X, paying special homage to Earl Woods, a U.S. Army Special Forces operator who served two tours in Vietnam and spent 20 years in uniform.
“My father was a Special Forces operator with two tours in Vietnam and 20 years of service,” 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.”
My father was a Special Forces operator with two tours in Vietnam and 20 years of service. 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.
— Tiger Woods (@TigerWoods) May 25, 2026
Tiger Woods Honors Late Father’s Special Forces Legacy
The post marked Woods’ first public statement since March 31st, when he announced he would step away from golf to seek inpatient treatment following a DUI arrest in Florida.
The golf icon was arrested following a single-vehicle rollover crash in Jupiter Island, Florida, in late March. Authorities reported finding two hydrocodone pills in his pocket during the arrest, and Woods admitted to taking several medications earlier that day.
He was charged with misdemeanor DUI and refusal to submit to a chemical or physical test.
Woods pleaded not guilty to the DUI charges, but publicly acknowledged the seriousness of the situation in his last statement on X, announcing he would step away to seek treatment and focus on his health. A judge approved his request to leave the country for the rehab stint.
“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” he wrote at the time. “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,” Woods continued. “I’m committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger, and more focused place, both personally and professionally.”
From Recent Struggles to Patriotic Reflection
Earl Woods, who passed away in 2006, was a significant influence on his son’s career. He is often credited with instilling the discipline and mental toughness that fueled Tiger’s dominance in the sport.
The timing of the message on Memorial Day—a solemn occasion honoring those who died in service—added emotional weight to Tiger’s post.
Woods has maintained a low profile amid his ongoing recovery. Reports indicate he recently returned briefly to Florida before heading back to Switzerland to continue his rehabilitation.
The Memorial Day message offered a rare positive note amid his difficult challenges.
