Fred Couples Opens Up About Tiger Woods' Pain Struggles and Road to Recovery

A Bond Forged Through Shared Pain

Following his Monday practice round at the 2026 Masters, Fred Couples offered heartfelt reflections on Tiger Woods' current struggles with chronic pain and addiction recovery. The 66-year-old Couples, who has battled debilitating back issues for 33 years, brings a unique perspective to Woods' situation.

Woods' Journey Toward Recovery

After his March 27 arrest on suspicion of DUI, Woods announced on March 31 that he was stepping away from golf "to seek treatment and focus on my health." A Florida judge subsequently approved Woods' request for overseas travel for "comprehensive inpatient treatment," with unconfirmed reports suggesting his presence in Switzerland.

Decades of Friendship and Understanding

The relationship between Couples and Woods dates back to the 1997 Ryder Cup, evolving into a deep friendship that Woods described in 2022 as having "my dad on Tour." While Couples texted Woods after the incident, he respects boundaries: "For me now to get involved with this would not make much sense. Doesn't mean I'm not paying attention."

The Reality of Chronic Pain

Couples draws from personal experience to describe chronic pain's impact: "It's like a toothache" that affects mood and daily life. His own journey led him to Germany in 2011 for Orthokine therapy, providing temporary relief from pain so severe he couldn't sleep.

A Message of Love and Hope

When asked what counsel he'd offer Woods, Couples' response was simple yet profound: "I'd tell him I love him, and things can always get better." This sentiment reflects the wisdom of someone who understands that chronic pain management is an ongoing process requiring patience, support, and hope.