Golfer Tiger Woods pleaded guilty to reckless driving at a court in Martin County, Florida, on Wednesday, following a traffic accident on Jupiter Island earlier this year.
The sportsman was accompanied to the courthouse by his partner, Vanessa Trump, marking a rare joint public appearance for the couple as Woods resolved charges stemming from his arrest on March 27.
Woods was originally arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of substances, causing property damage, and initially refusing to submit to a lawful urine test. He was released shortly after posting bail following the crash.
Plea deal and driving ban
Although Woods had initially entered a plea of not guilty, he changed his declaration in court on Wednesday after reaching an agreement that reduced the charge of driving under the influence to reckless driving. He also admitted to refusing the urine test, with the two offenses drawing respective fines of $1,000 and $500.
Both sanctions carry a mandatory five-year prohibition on driving. According to reporting by American news outlet Page Six, the presiding judge delivered a strict warning to Woods, stating that if he operates a vehicle for any reason, he will return to jail.
Jupiter Island, located in Martin County on Florida's Treasure Coast, is an exclusive barrier island community known for housing high-profile sports figures and celebrities. Woods, a 15-time major championship winner and one of golf's most decorated competitors, has lived in the area for many years.
Rare public appearance
Beyond the legal proceedings, the appearance of Woods alongside Vanessa Trump drew significant attention. Wednesday's court visit was one of the few occasions the couple have allowed themselves to be seen together in public.
Since making their relationship official in March 2025, the couple have maintained a strict policy of privacy regarding their personal lives. They have deliberately avoided public displays of affection and joint appearances in front of media cameras, making her presence at the courthouse a notable exception to demonstrate her support.
Vanessa Trump was previously married for 13 years to Donald Trump Jr., the eldest son of US President Donald Trump. The former model shares five children, who are grandchildren of the president, with her ex-husband following their divorce in 2018.
Support during cancer treatment
Following her divorce, Vanessa Trump built a consolidated relationship with Woods, whom she has described as one of her strongest sources of support. That mutual backing has proved particularly significant during a challenging period for her personal health.
In May, Vanessa Trump publicly announced that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer. She is currently undergoing treatment for the illness while surrounded by the ongoing support of her family and close circle.
