Morikawa's Back Woes: Scared to Swing?

Collin Morikawa is currently facing significant concerns regarding his lower back as he competes in the 2026 RBC Heritage. During the third round at Harbour Town, Morikawa fell backward after hitting a bunker shot, sparking immediate worry about his pre-existing back injury. He had previously revealed he was swinging at approximately 50 percent due to the condition.

This incident echoes his withdrawal from the PLAYERS Championship in March 2026, where a practice swing caused intense pain, leading to a three-week layoff. Despite these physical challenges, the 29-year-old golfer has maintained competitive scores, employing a cautious "dinking it around" approach on the course.

Morikawa has described feeling "scared" on the course due to his back issues, a sentiment rarely heard from a top-ranked player. He noted that his struggles began around the 2021 Tokyo Olympics and have recently escalated, impacting his ability to play without discomfort or fear.

Despite the ongoing pain and apprehension, Morikawa has achieved notable results, including a tie for seventh at Augusta National, which he called a "mini-win." With 36 holes remaining at Hilton Head and a substantial first-place prize, he faces a critical juncture in balancing his health with the pursuit of victory.