Tiger Woods appears in pre-recorded tribute video amid fan speculation after DUI arrest and rehab

Tiger Woods participated in a pre-recorded segment honoring retired golfer Notah Begay during Tuesday's Payne Stewart Award ceremony. In the clip, the 50-year-old praised Begay's achievements on the PGA Tour and his contributions to Native American communities, noting that he has helped more than 80,000 youths and families.

The appearance marked Woods' first public engagement since his March arrest for driving under the influence in Jupiter Island, Florida, and a subsequent stay at a rehabilitation facility in Switzerland that lasted until mid-June. Woods pleaded not guilty to the DUI charges and has been reported to be under significant stress as he plans a return to competitive golf.

Social media users expressed divergent views on Woods' demeanor in the video. Some observers described him as looking “different” or “spaced out,” while others said he appeared “normal,” “healthy,” and “great.”

"Clearly sober here. Nice to see," one commenter wrote.

An insider familiar with Woods' situation told a media outlet that the golfer is determined to resume playing but must manage pain treatment and maintain a fitness routine, challenges that could affect his performance.

Police records from the March incident indicated that officers observed signs of impairment, a negative breathalyzer result, and later discovered two white hydrocodone pills in Woods' pocket.