Gary Woodland Returns to Masters While Battling PTSD After Brain Surgery

Gary Woodland, the 2019 U.S. Open champion, has returned to the Masters Tournament after overcoming significant health challenges including brain surgery and a PTSD diagnosis.

Brain Surgery and PTSD Battle

The 41-year-old underwent surgery in September 2023 to remove a benign brain lesion that was causing seizures, anxiety, and fear. When symptoms persisted post-surgery, Woodland was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Woodland publicly revealed his condition in March, sharing that he had been battling PTSD for approximately one year. He openly discussed experiencing hypervigilance and paranoid thoughts, including fears that "people were trying to kill me."

Houston Open Victory Secures Masters Spot

Woodland's remarkable comeback culminated with a commanding victory at the Texas Children's Houston Open in March, where he finished 21-under par, winning by five strokes. This marked his fifth PGA Tour victory and first since his major championship triumph in 2019.

Remarkably, even during his winning performance, Woodland experienced symptoms, particularly during the final 10 holes where he battled paranoid thoughts while maintaining his lead.

Special Accommodations at Augusta

At Augusta National, Woodland and his team have coordinated with security officials to help manage his condition. The visual confirmation of security personnel throughout the course helps him "remind myself that I'm safe constantly."

Woodland acknowledged that the close proximity of patrons at Augusta could serve as triggers, but emphasized his determination to compete at golf's most prestigious venue while managing his mental health challenges.