How Collin Morikawa Found Success Despite Back Pain at Augusta National

Mental Fortitude Triumphs Over Physical Limitations

While most players left the 2026 Masters disappointed, Collin Morikawa emerged as one of the surprisingly satisfied competitors despite battling significant back pain throughout the tournament.

Pre-Tournament Concerns

Morikawa entered the Masters as a favorite after winning the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and posting multiple top-10 finishes in Signature Events. He was playing his signature "Collin Golf"—power fades off the tee combined with precise iron play.

However, a back injury sustained during The Players Championship opening morning left him unable to compete before Augusta. He arrived with limited practice, restricting his driver swings and moving cautiously during preparation rounds.

Adapted Strategy Pays Off

Despite opening with a rigid 74, Morikawa bounced back with a six-birdie 69 on Friday to make the cut comfortably. Throughout the weekend, he maintained steady play with 73% fairway accuracy and 67% GIR, both above field average.

Most remarkably, he ranked third in Strokes Gained: Putting for the week—the best among all players who made the cut. While he lost strokes off the tee compared to his usual standards, exceptional putting masked these deficiencies.

Dramatic Sunday Finish

Morikawa's final nine holes featured four consecutive birdies, propelling him into the top-10. "This blew by any expectations I had for the week," he reflected, emphasizing how the experience taught him about mental strength.

The tournament became a masterclass in course management and mental resilience, proving that adaptation and putting excellence can overcome physical limitations even at golf's highest level.