Marcello Hernandez landed one of the night’s biggest laughs after aiming Tiger Woods during his debut as host of the 2026 ESPY Awards. The Saturday Night Live comedian referenced the golf legend’s recent DUI arrest with a video game punchline before making it clear he still admired Woods.
The joke came just months after Woods was arrested following a rollover crash in Florida. While the athlete later stepped away from golf to focus on treatment, his legal troubles became unexpected material during one of sports’ biggest award shows.
SNL’s Marcello Hernandez compared Tiger Woods to “Grand Theft Auto” during his ESPYs monologue
While opening the ceremony, Hernandez joked about several athletes before turning his attention to Woods. He began by congratulating Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams for appearing on the cover of the latest Madden video game before quipping, “Congratulations to Caleb — and Tiger Woods will be on the cover of ‘Grand Theft Auto.’”
The joke referenced Woods’ March rollover crash near his Florida home. The golfer was arrested after the incident and was charged with DUI, property damage, and refusing to submit to a lawful test after officers responded to the scene.
Following the arrest, Woods pleaded not guilty and announced he would temporarily step away from professional golf. He wrote on X, “I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” before adding, “I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health. This is necessary in order for me to prioritize my well-being and work toward lasting recovery.”
Woods also thanked supporters, writing, “I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones and myself at this time.”
Hernandez softened the jab moments later by making it clear there were no hard feelings. Addressing Woods directly, he said, “I love you, Tiger. I’m a big fan, man. It’s just… it was written so well.”
Woods completed treatment after leaving a rehabilitation center in Switzerland in June. An insider said the golf icon had been “doing the best he can” while balancing his recovery with the legal challenges still ahead.
He was also expected to return to court for a status hearing on August 4. The athlete had previously survived several high-profile car crashes throughout his career, including a near-fatal rollover accident in 2021 that resulted in life-changing injuries to his right leg.
TELL US – DID MARCELLO HERNANDEZ’S TIGER WOODS JOKE CROSS THE LINE, OR WAS IT FAIR GAME FOR THE ESPYS?
Originally reported by Vanshika Vasundhare Singh for Reality Tea
