By Sravan Gannavarapu
Boston University News Service
BOSTON – Golf legend Tiger Woods needed to be pried from his vehicle and required surgery immediately after a serious, single-car crash south of Los Angeles on Tuesday.
Woods was transported to the Harbor-UCLA Medical Center’s trauma treatment center after his vehicle crashed in the city of Ranchos Palos Verdes around 7 a.m., according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
According to his agent, Mark Steinberg, Woods needed surgery for “multiple leg injuries” following the accident. Woods is believed to have suffered a shattered ankle and at least two leg fractures, according to the Los Angeles Times.
The L.A. County Sheriff’s Department stated that Woods was the only passenger in the crash, with CNN reporting that Woods’ vehicle allegedly crossed the center of the roadway before crashing.
“That road is kind of a steep climb, and [Woods] was coming downhill,” L.A. County Police Capt. James Powers said. “Speeds can increase just by the momentum of a vehicle.”
In a press conference Tuesday, L.A. Fire Department Chief Daryl Osby said a prying device, as well as an axe, were needed to help remove Woods from the SUV he was driving. Woods was reportedly still “lucid” and calm following the rollover crash, and believed to have been in stable condition. But, he could not stand on his own.
Prior to the crash, Woods had been in the Los Angeles area over the weekend, hosting the Genesis Invitational at the Riviera Country Club.
“We have been made aware of Tiger Woods’ car accident today,” PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan said. “We are awaiting further information when he comes out of surgery. On behalf of the PGA TOUR and our players, Tiger is in our prayers and will have our full support as he recovers.”
One of the most decorated professional golfers in the world, Woods’ record includes at least 15 major championship wins, including five wins at the Masters Tournament and three at the U.S. Open.
Woods previously had a spinal fusion back surgery in 2017 before returning to the game almost a year afterwards, later winning the Masters in 2019.
