Justin Thomas learned of Tiger Woods’ single-car accident Tuesday, February 23 while preparing for the WGC-Workday Championship at The Concession in Bradenton, Florida, and was staggered to hear about his good friend.
“I’m sick to my stomach. It hurts to see one of your, now my closest friends get in an accident,” Thomas said, choking back tears. “Man, I just hope he’s all right. I just worry for his kids. I’m sure they’re struggling.”
Woods was injured in a single vehicle rollover accident in California on Tuesday morning near Los Angeles. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said deputies responded at approximately 7:12 am to the scene in the area between Rolling Hills Estates and Rancho Palos Verdes.
Paramedics used the jaws of life to remove Woods, who was alone in the car, from the vehicle.
“It’s sickening,” says former world No. 1 golfer Adam Scott said. “He’s our hero out here. You think guys like Tiger and Kobe Bryant are untouchable, but they’re not. I just hope he’s all right.”
American pro golfer Xander Schauffele said the “mood has been very quiet.”
“Everyone I’ve talked to has been in a strange mood due to the news. I was talking to my caddie about the impact (Tiger’s) had on the game. It’s not good for us, not good for the game of golf. All we can do is hope that he’s fine and has a speedy recovery,” Schauffele said.
Reaction has been pouring in from across the country.
Golf legend Jack Nicklaus said he and his wife, Barbara, are “deeply concerned.”
“We want to offer him our heartfelt support and prayers at this difficult time. Please join us in wishing Tiger a successful surgery and all the best for a full recovery,” Nicklaus said.
Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley released a statement.
“Tiger Woods is part of the Augusta National Family, and the news of his accident is upsetting to all of us,” Ridley said. “We pray for him, for his full recovery and for his family during this difficult time.”
The PGA Tour also released a statement.
“We have been made aware of Tiger Woods’ car accident today,” the Tour said in a statement. “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.”
Former Olympic skier Lindsey Vonn, whom Woods dated from 2013 to 2015, tweeted: “Praying for TW right now.”
Athletes such as Alex Rodriguez, Karl-Anthony Towns, Julian Edelman, Isaiah Thomas, Trae Young, Myles Garrett, Reggie Bush, Tim Brown and Michael Phelps were just a few who raised up prayers to Woods on Twitter.
Tweeted Magic Johnson: “Everyone send your prayers out to Tiger Woods. … Let us all pray for his speedy recovery.”
Officials said the injuries are not life-threatening but his agent, Mark Steinberg, said Woods was in surgery with multiple leg injuries, with compound fractures reportedly in at least one of his legs.
Woods was taken by ambulance to Harbor-UCLA Medical Center. The Los Angeles Fire Department said Woods is in serious condition.
Fellow athletes and other notable figures reacted with concern:
“Sending my prayers to @TigerWoods and his family tonight – here’s to a speedy recovery for the GOAT of golf. If we’ve learned anything over the years, it’s to never count Tiger out.” – former US President Barack Obama
“We are all pulling for you, Tiger. We are so sorry that you and your family are going through this tough time. Everyone hopes and prays for your full and speedy recovery.” – PGA Tour golfer Phil Mickelson on Twitter
“We are following the news around Tiger and our thoughts and heart are with him and his family at this time.” – Nike Inc, a longtime Tiger Woods sponsor, in a statement
“Get well soon, Tiger. You are a true champion!” – former US President Donald Trump in a statement
“Prayers up for the GOAT @TigerWoods who was in an accident this morning. Was just with him yesterday. Don’t take not even a MOMENT for granted! I know you’re good because your Tiger within is a beast!!!” – actress Jada Pinkett Smith on Twitter
“Praying for my brother @TigerWoods as we all anxiously await more news. Thinking of him and his entire family.” – retired Major League Baseball player Alex Rodriguez on Twitter
“When I saw the condition of his car, for me, I just hoped that he’s OK, that’s the biggest reaction really. Also a little bit of shock because we had something crazy happen in our sports world last year with Kobe (Bryant). I wouldn’t say that dramatic of feelings, but you just hope Tiger is all right.” – PGA Tour golfer Tony Finau in a TV interview
“Thinking of @TigerWoods this afternoon… prayers this is just the beginning of another major comeback.” – New England Patriots football wide receiver Julian Edelman on Twitter
“Prayers for @TigerWoods” – retired US Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps on Twitter
– Rappler.com
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