Tiger Woods is fortunate enough to be alive as the golf icon suffers serious but non-fatal injuries in a car crash that could have been fatal

Tiger Woods suffered serious leg injuries after a potentially fatal car crash in Los Angeles on Tuesday morning.

The golf icon was traveling alone to Rancho Palos Verdes when the incident occurred, with fire crews having to use an ax to pull Woods out of the wreckage.

No other vehicle was involved and Woods’ injuries, which include a broken ankle and a compound fracture, are not life threatening.

Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex Villanueva told a news conference that “ then MPs saw no evidence of disabilities ” after arriving at the crash scene in 7:18.

Woods’ vehicle traveled “several hundred feet from the center divider” and suffered “major damage” after hitting a curb, tree and overturning several times at high speed.

The interior of his Genesis GV80 “gave him the cushion to survive what would otherwise have been a fatal accident,” according to Villanueva.

Los Angeles Fire Chief Daryl Osby revealed Woods was conscious and in stable condition, but with serious injuries to both legs.

Carlos Gonzalez, the Los Angeles sheriff’s deputy who arrived at the scene first, said Woods was not able to fend for himself, but was “ clear-headed and calm ”.

The 45-year-old was immediately taken to a local hospital by ambulance for surgery to repair his ankle.

His agent Mark Steinberg said: “Tiger Woods had a single car accident this morning in California where he sustained multiple leg injuries. He is currently in surgery and we thank you for your privacy and support. “

Woods, a 15-time major winner, is one of the greatest golfers of all time and one of the most iconic figures in the history of the sport.

Woods dominated the world of golf for over a decade between the late 90s and early 2010s, before public scandal and physical issues saw him struggle for many years.

He is the youngest player to complete the majors’ Grand Slam career and made the “Tiger Slam” in 2000 and 2001, winning all four majors in a row.

His most recent triumph at the 2019 Masters came after years of back injuries and spinal fusion surgery, sparking new hope that he can pursue Jack Nicklaus’ record of 18 major championships.

The American was injured following new back surgery in December – and was hoping to return for this year’s Masters in April.

Woods’ last appearance on the course came alongside his son Charlie at the PNC Championship at the end of 2020.

He hosted the Genesis Open in Riviera last weekend, presenting the trophy to Max Homa and commenting alongside Jim Nantz on Sunday.

The golf world has reacted to the news, offering prayers and best wishes for Woods as he undergoes surgery.

World No.3 Justin Thomas, who has become a close friend of Woods and his family, became emotional upon reacting to the news.

“My stomach hurts,” Thomas said at a press conference ahead of the WGC-Workday Championship.

“You know, it hurts to see one of your… now one of my closest friends has an accident.”

“Dude, I just hope he’s okay. Just worry about her kids, you know. I’m sure they’re struggling.

British golfer Ian Poulter, former England international Gary Lineker and Tottenham striker Gareth Bale were also among the social media supporters.

Former US alpine ski racer Lindsey Vonn, a former girlfriend of Woods, also tweeted, “Praying for TW right now.”