Tiger Woods has declined the role of United States Ryder Cup captain for next year’s tournament in Ireland, following a DUI arrest and a decision to step away from professional golf to focus on his health.
Woods, a 15-time major champion, was arrested in Florida on Friday after clipping a truck and rolling his car. He faces charges of driving under the influence, property damage, and refusal to submit to a lawful test. Through his lawyers, he entered a not guilty plea on Tuesday.
The 50-year-old has since announced he is leaving professional golf to seek treatment, and a judge has granted him permission to do so overseas.
The PGA of America, which made the captaincy announcement, praised Woods for prioritising his long-term health and said it will confirm a replacement captain in due course.
Woods has represented the United States at the Ryder Cup eight times, but won it just once, back in 1999 at Brookline.
The 2027 edition takes place at Adare Manor in County Limerick, from the 17th to the 19th of September. Europe’s captain, Luke Donald, was confirmed for a third term last month.