Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Tiger Woods

Controversies are a part of history. Explore the biggest scandals linked to Tiger Woods.

Tiger Woods is a highly accomplished American professional golfer, considered one of the greatest of all time. He is tied for the most PGA Tour wins and ranks second in major championships. A World Golf Hall of Fame inductee, Woods holds numerous records and is a globally recognized athlete.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

1997: Civil Case Initiated

In 1997, Tiger Woods and Arnold Palmer initiated a civil case against Bruce Matthews and others to stop the unauthorized sale of their images and signatures in the memorabilia market.

November 2009: Woods Involved in Car Accident Following Affair Allegations

In November 2009, following the publication of a story claiming he had an extramarital affair, Tiger Woods crashed his Cadillac Escalade SUV near his Florida home, resulting in minor injuries and a ticket for careless driving.

December 2009: Tiger Woods Takes Hiatus from Golf

In December 2009, Tiger Woods took a self-imposed hiatus from professional golf to address marital issues.

December 2009: Companies Re-evaluate Relationships with Woods

In December 2009, following Tiger Woods's admission of multiple infidelities, TAG Heuer dropped Woods from advertising. A study estimated shareholder loss caused by Woods' affairs to be between $5 billion and $12 billion.

2009: Comeback, Presidents Cup performance, marital infidelities revealed.

In 2009, Tiger Woods made a highly anticipated return to golf and performed well, including a spectacular performance at the 2009 Presidents Cup. However, he failed to win a major that year. At the end of 2009, his marital infidelities came to light, receiving massive media coverage.

2009: Factors Attributed to Project Problems

Problems encountered by Tiger Woods' design projects have been attributed to overly optimistic estimates, declines throughout the global economy, and the decreased appeal and marketability of Woods following his 2009 infidelity scandal.

February 2010: Golf Digest Suspends Woods' Monthly Column

Beginning with the February 2010 issue, Golf Digest magazine suspended Tiger Woods' monthly column.

February 2010: Televised apology and endorsement deals ended

In February 2010, Tiger Woods delivered a televised apology for his behavior, admitting he was wrong and foolish. During this period, several companies ended their endorsement deals with Woods.

February 19, 2010: Woods Gives Televised Statement

On February 19, 2010, Tiger Woods gave a televised statement in which he apologized for his actions and announced he went through a 45-day therapy program.

August 2011: TAG Heuer Officially Ended Deal With Woods

In August 2011, TAG Heuer officially ended their deal with Tiger Woods when his contract expired.

March 12, 2014: Jury Rules Against Woods

On March 12, 2014, a Florida jury found in favor of Gotta Have It on its breach of contract and other related claims, rejected ETW's counterclaims, and awarded Gotta Have It $668,346 in damages.

May 29, 2017: Woods Arrested for DUI

On May 29, 2017, Tiger Woods was arrested near his home in Jupiter Island, Florida, for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. He was found asleep in his car, which was stationary in a traffic lane with its engine running.

July 3, 2017: Woods Tweets About Completing Intensive Program

On July 3, 2017, Tiger Woods tweeted that he completed an out-of-state intensive program to tackle an unspecified issue.

August 9, 2017: Woods Pleads Not Guilty

At his arraignment on August 9, 2017, Tiger Woods had his attorney submit a not guilty plea for him and agreed to participate in a first-time DUI offender program and attend another arraignment.

October 27, 2017: Woods Pleads Guilty to Reckless Driving

At a hearing on October 27, 2017, Tiger Woods pleaded guilty to reckless driving and received a year of probation, a $250 fine, 50 hours of community service, and regular drug tests.

2023: Herman Files Suit Against Woods

In early 2023, Erica Herman filed suit against Tiger Woods in relation to a non-disclosure agreement, alleging that it violates the Speak Out Act and claiming she was owed $30 million.