Tiger Woods Sends Heartfelt Message to Notah Begay Amid Personal Struggles

Tiger Woods has largely remained out of the spotlight following his DUI arrest in March, but his recent video message to fellow golfer Notah Begay has sparked conversation among fans. During the Payne Stewart Award ceremony, Woods congratulated Begay on his achievements in a pre-recorded video.

Woods stated, “You first came into my life when I was 11 years old, playing in the junior world and you came to watch me play. Our friendship has started there and never ended.” He praised Begay not only for his accomplishments on the golf course but also for his work with Native American communities.

“To see what you’ve done off the course and for your local Native American communities, you’ve helped over 80,000 youths and their families, which is absolutely incredible,” Woods noted.

Begay received the prestigious Payne Stewart Award from the PGA Tour for his character and philanthropic work. Woods acknowledged Begay’s efforts to support tribal lands and improve opportunities for those communities.

Woods expressed gratitude for Begay’s influence, saying, “Thank you for getting our friendship started and I love you dude.”

While Woods’ message was endearing, it led to mixed reactions. Some fans were concerned about his appearance, noting a change in his demeanor. Others remained supportive, hoping that Woods is on a healthier path.

In March 2026, Woods was involved in a car crash on Jupiter Island, Florida. He was arrested for DUI, with officers finding two opioid pills in his pocket. Following his arrest, Woods entered a rehabilitation center in Switzerland, returning to the public eye with this video and at a recent PGA Tour news conference.

Despite his ongoing legal challenges, including a court appearance scheduled for September 8, Woods continues to contribute to golf through his role on the Tour’s Future Competition Committee.