PGA Tour professionals Billy Horschel and Chris Kirk have voiced their support for Tiger Woods’s decision to seek treatment, drawing on their own experiences with addiction.

Players with Personal Experience Offer Support

Speaking at the TPC San Antonio practice range ahead of the Valero Texas Open, both Horschel and Kirk emphasized their desire for Woods’s well-being. Horschel, whose wife Brittany confronted alcohol abuse in 2016, stated, “Tiger is a great friend and was there for me 10, 15 years ago. I want to be there for him.”

Acknowledging Woods' Ongoing Struggles

Horschel added, “Anyone who has been around him knows he isn’t living pain-free.” He noted Woods’ extensive history of surgeries – “The man has had like 50 surgeries related to his back and ankle and leg and knee” – and acknowledged the prevalence of hidden struggles within the golfing community. He also mentioned seeing other players, like Anthony Kim, and caddies seeking help for various issues.

The Importance of Self-Admission

Chris Kirk, who took several months away from the PGA Tour in 2019 for alcohol abuse treatment, highlighted the crucial role of self-awareness in recovery. “It doesn’t matter if people around you think you need help, it won’t come out as a solution unless you want to do it,” he said. He added, “I know the first step to be sober is to admit the issue.”

Reflecting on Past Incidents

Woods has faced previous vehicle incidents, including a 2017 DUI arrest in Florida where prescription drugs were found in his system. A recent police report from last Friday indicated two hydrocodone pills were found in Woods’s pocket. Kirk questioned whether Woods’s decision was driven by external expectations or a genuine need for help, stating, “I don’t know what the intentions are.”

Focus on Overall Well-being

Horschel emphasized that his primary concern is Woods’s happiness and health, independent of his golfing career. He drew a parallel to his wife’s journey, stating, “She understood the level it took to change her life.” He concluded, “I want Tiger to be living a great life. It has nothing to do with golf, but to be happy and healthy, that’s all I care about.”