Whoopi Goldberg backs ‘friend’ Tiger Woods after DUI case: ‘Don't like kicking a man when he's down’

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Whoopi Goldberg publicly voiced her support for her friend Tiger Woods. Speaking on the Wednesday, April 1 episode of 'The View,' the co-host addressed Woods’ DUI charge and his move to seek treatment.

She referred to Woods as her “friend” and said she wishes him the best, hoping he makes a swift recovery from his current troubles. 

Goldberg's comments came after Woods, 50, was arrested in Florida and charged with driving under the influence after hitting a truck and flipping his car. The 15-time major winner has since entered a written plea of not guilty through his legal team.

Whoopi Goldberg supports 'friend' Tiger Woods after arrest

After mentioning that some people are “not as compassionate” about Tiger Woods’ March 27 arrest, Whoopi Goldberg shared her own thoughts as someone who knows him personally. While discussing the situation on 'The View,' Goldberg said, “Tiger is a friend of mine, and I wish him nothing but the best." She also added, "I don’t like kicking a man when he’s down. I’ll leave that to other folks."

The conversation included other co-hosts like Sunny Hostin, Sara Haines, and Joy Behar, along with guest co-host Whitney Cummings. Hostin, 57, spoke about Woods’ back pain. She pointed out that while “we talk about the opioid crisis in this country with such empathy,” that same understanding is not always shown to Woods.

She explained, "I’m not excusing the fact that he was driving while under the influence, but I think we need to show someone who is a sports legend, who may have been pushed very hard as a child, and have some grace for the pain he’s living with and the fact that, as an athlete, he is now having to struggle with the fact that he may have to give up the one thing he loves to do."

Later, Behar, 83, questioned why Woods couldn’t “get a driver.” Responding to that, Goldberg said, "You don’t want to be that guy that’s just, ‘Well, why is he always being driven around?’ You can’t win.” She ended by saying, "Look, he's getting what he needs," and added, "He will get what he needs."

Tiger Woods steps away to seek treatment after crash

Woods is stepping back from golf to focus on his health after the accident. He was involved in a two-car crash in Jupiter Island, Florida, where his Range Rover flipped over.

On Tuesday, March 31, Woods shared a statement on X, where he publicly addressed his situation. The golf legend said he understands "the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today."

He also explained his next steps, writing, "I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health," and added, "This is necessary in order for me to prioritize my well-being and work toward lasting recovery."

Woods also shared that he wants to come back in a better state. In his words, "I'm committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger, and more focused place, both personally and professionally."

He thanked people for their support and said, "I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones and myself at this time." In the past, Woods has faced other accidents as well. He had a serious crash in Los Angeles in 2021 that required surgery, and another incident in 2009 near his home in Florida.