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Tiger Woods Says He Won't Hire Driver, Despite Friends' Concern

Following a DUI arrest in Florida, those close to Woods are reportedly worried about his health.

Tiger Woods says he'll keep driving himself, apparently brushing off scrutiny from his inner circle following last week's DUI arrest and rollover crash in Florida. Those close to the legendary golfer are speaking out about his current state of mind, suggesting the 50-year-old athlete needs to reconcile his competitive ambitions with his physical reality, according to a new story in PEOPLE.

In addition to the concern of those around him, PEOPLE also reported that he has opted not to hire a private driver because he "doesn't want anyone to watch over him or know what he is doing." The source indicated that he remains under the impression that he is "fine to drive," prioritizing his fierce desire for privacy over outside assistance.

The arrest occurred Friday, March 27, near his Jupiter Island home. The 15-time major champion was traveling in a Land Rover when he reportedly attempted to pass a pressure-cleaning truck at a high rate of speed on a two-lane road. His vehicle clipped the truck’s trailer and rolled onto its side. Martin County Sheriff John M. Budensiek confirmed during a press conference that while he showed "signs of impairment" and appeared lethargic, a breathalyzer test at the jail returned "triple zeroes." However, the golfer refused to submit to a urine test, leading to charges of DUI with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test.

In the wake of the incident, an insider told PEOPLE exclusively that those in his orbit are worried. He reportedly has yet to "look in the mirror" and acknowledge his age, with one confidant stating, "You’re 50 years old and need to act like it."

There is a growing sentiment among his peers that he is surrounded by enablers who prioritize his reputation and earning power over his well-being. This environment, combined with a string of physical injuries and the natural toll of aging, has reportedly left him feeling "frustrated and depressed." While he remains determined to compete in major tournaments like the Masters, his inner circle suggests he needs to "get real" about his health and current limitations.

Beyond his professional frustrations, personal grief continues to play a role in his life. The golf icon has "never really gotten over" the death of his father, Earl Woods, who passed away nearly 20 years ago, according to reporting from PEOPLE. This unresolved pain, coupled with chronic physical discomfort, has led to a state where his "peace of mind has run amok."

Currently, he is in a serious relationship with Vanessa Trump, 48, who is the ex-wife of Donald Trump Jr. While the couple is described as "intense," additional reports indicate that she would support him should he choose to enter the Masters Tournament, despite the recent turmoil.

Known for being a fiercely private individual who "despises public scrutiny," he typically avoids the spotlight when not on the course. When at home, he prefers a quiet life with his two teenage children, Sam Woods, 18, and Charlie Woods, 17, whom he shares with his ex-wife Elin Nordegren.

Despite the gravity of the recent charges—which mark his fourth major vehicle incident since 2009—his friends maintain that he is fundamentally a "good person" who would benefit from accepting his current circumstances. “Tiger needs to get a grip on his limitations and make arrangements for them," one individual added.”

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