Gary Player Sympathises With Tiger Woods' Pain But Says He Should Not be Driving

Golf legend Gary Player has commented on the recent controversy involving fellow major champion Tiger Woods, saying that while he understands the use of pain medication due to Woods’ long history of injuries, he believes the golfer should not be driving a vehicle while under such treatment. The player's remarks come in the wake of Woods’ reported legal troubles following a car crash and subsequent arrest on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Woods, a 15-time major champion, has endured a lengthy history of injuries and surgeries over the past decade, including multiple back operations and severe leg trauma from a serious accident years earlier. According to reports, he was recently involved in a crash after his vehicle struck a trailer and flipped onto its side on a residential street in Florida. Authorities later determined he was impaired, and he was found with painkillers in his possession, though he has since pleaded not guilty to DUI-related charges.

Speaking at an event during the Masters, Player expressed sympathy for Woods, emphasising the severe and ongoing pain the golfer has been dealing with. He noted that it is easy for the public to judge without understanding the physical suffering involved, adding that Woods’ medical condition makes the use of pain management medication understandable.

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However, Player also stressed that operating a vehicle under such conditions poses serious risks. He compared it to distracted driving, saying that medication affecting alertness or reflexes makes driving unsafe not only for Woods but also for others on the road. Player suggested that hiring a chauffeur would be a safer alternative given the circumstances.

Player also reflected on his own lifestyle, noting that despite maintaining strong physical fitness, he no longer drives himself and relies on a chauffeur. He encouraged similar caution for Woods, framing it as a practical step rather than a criticism of the golfer’s character or situation.

The incident has sparked wider discussion within the golfing community, with several players and public figures expressing sympathy for Woods while also raising concerns about road safety. Many, including fellow professional golfer Jason Day, have echoed the view that while Woods is widely respected in the sport, caution must be exercised when dealing with the side effects of medication and impaired driving risks.

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