PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. — Former U.S. Open champion Gary Woodland revealed in an emotional interview that he has been battling post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) since his 2023 brain surgery, as he prepares for this week’s Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass.
Woodland, 41, shared his ongoing challenges with Golf Channel’s Rex Hoggard, explaining that the condition has left him feeling like he’s “dying” even as he competes on the PGA Tour.
The four-time PGA Tour winner underwent surgery in September 2023 to remove a lesion on his brain that was causing partial seizures and intense feelings of fear. He made a remarkable return to competition in January 2024, but about a year ago, he received a formal PTSD diagnosis amid persistent mental and emotional struggles.
“I have a lot of fight in me and I’m not going to let this thing win. But it’s been hard,” Woodland said in the interview.
Woodland described severe episodes where he has broken down in tears on the golf course, including in the middle of fairways during tournaments. He emphasized his decision to go public now, stating, “I can’t waste energy anymore hiding this,” and expressed hope that sharing his story could help others facing similar battles. “If someone needs to hear that, know that I’m battling too,” he added during a practice round at TPC Sawgrass.
The revelation has resonated across the golf community, with social media users and outlets highlighting Woodland’s courage. One headline from the New York Post called it a “heartbreaking battle,” drawing attention to his resilience.
Woodland, who missed the cut at last year’s Players Championship, is set to tee off this week (alongside Kevin Yu and Cam Davis) and plans to compete in three consecutive events (Innisbrook, Houston, San Antonio) following the tournament, with the goal of qualifying for the Masters.
Despite the challenges, Woodland remains grateful for the support from fans and fellow players, noting the support motivates him even as he navigates his recovery. His story underscores the often-unseen mental health struggles in professional sports, particularly after major medical procedures.
