Tiger Woods makes rare video appearance to honor Notah Begay III

Tiger Woods made a rare public appearance via a pre-recorded video message to congratulate longtime friend and former PGA Tour professional Notah Begay III. The message was aired on the Golf Channel during the Payne Stewart Award ceremony, which honors Begay for his character, sportsmanship, and philanthropic work within Native American communities.

Woods, 50, reflected on a friendship that began when he was 11 years old, describing their bond as an “unbelievable ride.” He specifically praised Begay’s efforts through the NB3 Foundation, which has supported over 80,000 youths and their families.

Following the video's release, social media users expressed concern regarding Woods' physical appearance, with some commenters noting he looked thinner or different than usual. This appearance follows a period of relative seclusion for Woods after a March rollover crash in Florida that resulted in misdemeanor DUI-related charges and a subsequent stay in a Swiss rehabilitation facility. Woods has pleaded not guilty to charges including DUI with property damage and refusing a lawful test.