Gary Woodland's Inspiring Return to Golf After Brain Surgery and PTSD Battle
In an emotional interview following his victory, Gary Woodland expressed hope for those struggling, stating, "Just keep fighting." This heartfelt message came after he secured his first PGA Tour win since undergoing brain surgery in September 2023, triumphing at the Texas Children's Houston Open by five strokes. Woodland's victory marks a significant comeback, coming seven years after his last PGA Tour win at the 2019 US Open. He attributes this success to his decision to open up about the mental toll his medical challenges have caused, revealing his struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) since the surgery. During his second round in Houston, he faced an episode of hypervigilance but managed to regain control, stating, "I bawled my eyes out, I reset and was able to come back out." The 41-year-old shared that acknowledging his battles has made him feel "a thousand pounds lighter," emphasizing that this victory is more about courage than financial gain. He expressed gratitude for the PGA Tour security team and his wife, Gabby, for their unwavering support during his journey: "There is no chance I could have done this without my wife." Looking ahead, Woodland prepares to compete at The Masters for the first time since 2024, aiming to improve his previous best finish. He noted, "My game is better than it has ever been," reflecting on his recent return to form after overcoming a challenging start to the year. His victory in Houston not only secures him a spot at Augusta National but also symbolizes resilience and the importance of seeking help in tough times. Woodland concluded, "Rewarded for not giving up, for keeping on fighting."
Source: Sky Sports - 2026-03-30