PGA Tour professional Gary Woodland, the 2019 U.S. Open champion, has courageously disclosed his ongoing struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder following his recovery from brain tumor surgery in September 2023. The 41-year-old athlete received the PGA Tour Courage Award in 2025 for his remarkable return to competitive golf despite significant health challenges.
Woodland revealed that approximately one year ago, he was diagnosed with PTSD, which has profoundly impacted his performance and mental state during tournaments. In a heartfelt interview with Golf Channel, the professional golfer explained his decision to stop concealing his condition: ‘I can’t waste energy any more hiding this, and I’m blessed with a lot of support out here on the Tour. I appreciate that love and support. But inside, I feel like I’m dying and I feel like I’m living a lie.’
The athlete described a particularly distressing episode during last year’s Procore Championship in California when a walking scorer unexpectedly approached him from behind, triggering severe symptoms. ‘My eyesight started to get blurry. I couldn’t remember what I was doing,’ Woodland recounted, noting that he continued playing against his caddie’s advice due to his commitment as vice captain for the U.S. Ryder Cup team.
Woodland’s journey has included emotional struggles both on and off the course, with the golfer frequently seeking privacy in restrooms to manage his symptoms during tournaments. He has since engaged in conversations with military veterans about mental health challenges and hopes his transparency will inspire others facing similar battles. ‘I hope somebody that’s struggling sees me out here still fighting and battling and trying to live my dreams,’ Woodland stated, emphasizing the importance of addressing mental health in professional sports.
The PGA Tour has recognized Woodland’s perseverance with its highest honor for courage, highlighting his determination to compete at the highest level while managing significant health obstacles. Woodland continues to participate in PGA Tour events, demonstrating exceptional resilience in his professional comeback.