Kathmandu— Tiger Woods, one of golf's most influential figures, pleaded no contest to a reckless driving charge and had his driver’s license suspended for five years on Wednesday. The plea came after a rollover crash near his home in Stuart, Florida, where he was initially accused of driving under the influence (DUI). Woods, who won the 2019 Masters for his 15th major title, has faced multiple back and knee surgeries, car crashes, and dependence on pain medication over recent years.

The Crash Details

Woods was arrested in March after his SUV clipped a truck and rolled over on its side on a beachside residential road near his home. A sheriff’s report stated that deputies found two pain pills in Woods’ pocket and noted signs of impairment, though he passed a Breathalyzer test and refused to take a urine test.

Legal Proceedings

Woods initially pleaded not guilty to the original DUI charge. At Wednesday’s hearing, he also pleaded no contest to refusing to submit to testing after the crash and was fined $1,500. A no-contest plea is treated as a conviction in the criminal justice system but does not admit guilt.

Health and Treatment

Woods’ longtime manager Mark Steinberg stated that Woods has been continuing his treatment and prioritizing all aspects of his health. The prosecutor noted that two toxicologists found insufficient proof of impairment, determining Woods had built up a pharmacological tolerance to pain medication after years of use.

Public Reaction

President Donald Trump commented on the resolution, suggesting Woods should get someone else to drive him. “He’s just a very special guy,” Trump said. The crash did not result in injuries for either Woods or the other driver involved.

(With inputs from AP)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.