Paul Azinger Says 'Some Players' Think Tiger Woods Has Pain Medication Problem

Former professional golfer Paul Azinger says some current PGA Tour players believe Tiger Woods is dealing with a potential addiction to pain medication.

On Thursday, Will Gray of the Golf Channel passed along comments Azinger made during an appearance on Fox Sports' The Herd with Colin Cowherd following Woods' recent DUI arrest.

"I know firsthand there are some players that think there's a problem there with Tiger," he said. "I don't, I haven't been around him much the last few years. But there are some players out there that are saying this has been a problem for a while."

Woods released a statement following the arrest to deny alcohol was involved in the incident. He said an "unexpected reaction" to his medication caused the problems.

"I understand the severity of what I did and I take full responsibility for my actions," he said. "I want the public to know that alcohol was not involved. What happened was an unexpected reaction to prescribed medications. I didn't realize the mix of medications had affected me so strongly. I would like to apologize with all my heart to my family, friends and the fans. I expect more from myself too."

TMZ Sports noted the police report filed in Florida later verified those claims, with a breathalyzer test showing no signs of alcohol in his system after the arrest.

Azinger, who currently works as a Fox Sports golf analyst, said on The Herd the numerous injuries Woods has dealt with over the past decade is a concern.

"He's had a lot of back surgeries, he's had knee surgeries, he's had an Achilles issue. He's had a lot of pain," he said. "It would be easy for Tiger to get hooked on that, that very addictive drug, if he's hooked on it. I hope he's not."

The 1993 PGA Championship winner also urged the superstar's close circle of friends to help: "Tiger's close to a few people. Not many. And the few people that are around Tiger probably know there's a problem. And if they don't intervene, then it's on them. But addiction's a big deal, and if he's addicted, then somebody better intervene."

Here's a look at the full discussion about Woods' status between Azinger and substitute host Jason Whitlock:

The 14-time major champion hasn't played competitive golf since the Omega Dubai Desert Classic in early February due to continued back problems. Before the arrest, Woods wrote on his official website he "unequivocally" wanted to tee it up again but didn't provide a timetable for his return.