Tiger Woods is “awake, responsive and recovering in his hospital room” after surgery on “significant” right leg injuries following a car crash which could have cost him his life.

A statement from Woods’ official Twitter account on Wednesday morning gave an update on the 15-time major winner’s status following the accident which happened on Tuesday, which led to surgery on his right leg.

“We thank everyone for the overwhelming support and messages during this tough time,” the statement read.

“As previously communicated Tiger was involved in a single-car accident early this morning in California. He has undergone a long surgical procedure on his lower right leg and ankle after being brought to the hospital.

“He is currently awake, responsive, and recovering in his hospital room.”

Woods survived “what would otherwise have been a fatal crash” because the interior of his vehicle remained largely intact, according to Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex Villanueva.

The 45-year-old was “conscious and able to communicate” with emergency personnel at the scene and was taken to Harbor UCLA Medical Centre.

Anish Mahajan, chief medical officer and interim CEO at the hospital said: “Mr Woods suffered significant orthopaedic injuries to his right lower extremity that were treated during emergency surgery by orthopaedic trauma specialists at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, a level 1 trauma center.

“Comminuted open fractures affecting the upper and lower of the tibia and fibula bones were stabilised by inserting a rod into the tibia. Additional injuries to the bones of the foot and ankle were stabilised with a combination of screws and pins.

“Trauma to the muscle and soft tissue of the leg required surgical release of the covering of the muscles to relieve pressure due to swelling.”

Woods’s vehicle, a 2021 mid-size SUV bearing the logo of his Genesis Invitational tournament, travelled “several hundred feet from the centre divider” and sustained “major damage”.

“We want to offer him our heartfelt support and prayers at this difficult time. Please join us in wishing Tiger a successful surgery and all the best for a full recovery.”

Former world number one Greg Norman wrote on Instagram: “He has mental strength stronger than most and has fought many battles and won many of them.

“His mental strength will win this battle. Prayers and thoughts to TigerWoods and his family.”