Home / Sports / Golfer Woodland's Brave Battle With PTSD After Brain Surgery
Golfer Woodland's Brave Battle With PTSD After Brain Surgery
9 Apr
Summary
- Woodland overcame brain surgery and a PTSD diagnosis.
- He won the Houston Open in 2026 after a six-year drought.
- Doctors removed a benign brain lesion in September 2023.
Professional golfer Gary Woodland, a five-time PGA Tour winner, has publicly shared his battle with post-traumatic stress disorder following brain surgery. In September 2023, Woodland underwent an operation to remove a benign lesion on his brain. The procedure involved creating a significant opening in his skull, requiring extensive staples to close.
Following the surgery, Woodland experienced severe symptoms and was diagnosed with PTSD. This diagnosis came as a shock, particularly as he returned to the golf circuit. Despite the external support, he described an internal struggle, feeling as though he was 'dying' and 'living a lie'.
Remarkably, Woodland returned to professional golf and achieved a significant victory at the 2026 Houston Open. This win marked his first PGA Tour title in six years, showcasing his resilience and determination in overcoming both his physical and mental health challenges.
