Tiger Woods: Barack Obama and Cher lead messages of support to golf star following car crash

Barack Obama and Cher are among the celebrities to have sent messages of support to Tiger Woods after the sports star was involved in a car accident.

The golf player was hospitalised with “multiple leg injuries” following a major car collision in Los Angeles during the early hours of Tuesday (23 February) morning. Police said that Woods was “fortunate to be alive” following the incident.

Former US president Obama tweeted on Tuesday night: “Sending my prayers to @TigerWoods and his family tonight—here’s to a speedy recovery for the GOAT [Greatest of All Time] of golf. If we’ve learned anything over the years, it’s to never count Tiger out.”

Actor Jada Pinkett Smith also shared her thoughts with the sporting champion, revealing that she’d been with him the day before his accident.

“Prayers up for the GOAT @TigerWoods who was in an accident this morning,” she wrote. “Was just with him yesterday. Don’t take not even a MOMENT for granted! I know you’re good because your Tiger within is a beast!!!”

“Saying prayers for Tiger Woods [prayer hands emoji],” Cher tweeted, while Mariah Carey said: “Sending love and prayers to @TigerWoods and his family .”

“Sending a special prayer out to @TigerWoods & his family. Praying for a speedy recovery,” comedian Kevin Hart added.

“Thoughts are with @TigerWoods. Hope it’s not as serious as appears [fingers crossed emoji],” Gary Lineker posted.

Read more: The highs and lows of Woods’ career after car crash forces surgery

In an update shared on Wednesday (24 February) morning, Woods’s surgeon revealed the extent of his injuries, writing that he had obtained “open fractures” to his legs and has undergone a “long surgical procedure on his lower right leg and ankle after being brought to the hospital”.

However, Woods is said to be “awake, responsive and recovering”.