Gary Woodland’s Inspiring Comeback: Battling PTSD and Chasing Victory
HOUSTON (AP) — Gary Woodland is on the cusp of a remarkable victory at the Texas Children’s Houston Open, holding a one-shot lead over Nicolai Højgaard after a stellar 5-under 65 on Saturday. This performance marks a significant milestone in his journey back to the top, a journey defined not only by skill but also by incredible resilience.
Overcoming Adversity: Brain Surgery and PTSD
Woodland’s story has resonated deeply with fans, particularly following his candid revelation earlier this month at THE PLAYERS Championship about his struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). After undergoing brain surgery in September 2023 to remove a lesion causing debilitating fears, Woodland faced a new set of challenges. He openly shared how the PTSD manifested, leading to unexpected crying spells during rounds and moments of seeking refuge in the bathroom.
“I’ve just got to take a deep breath,” Woodland said, reflecting on the pressure of the final round. “I’ll have a good night ahead of me tonight to recover and rest, and tomorrow just don’t get ahead of yourself. I’m here, I put myself in this position for a reason, so take a deep breath and maintain what I’m doing.” Sharing his experience publicly, he admitted, felt like a “1,000 pounds lighter.”
Strong Performance at the Texas Children’s Houston Open
Woodland’s current form is a testament to his dedication and mental fortitude. He’s currently at 18-under 192, marking the first time he’s held the 54-hole lead since his 2019 U.S. Open triumph at Pebble Beach. A recent change in iron shafts, addressing a loss of control as his strength returned, has also contributed to his success.
He showcased his skill with a remarkable 2-iron shot over the water on the par-5 16th, securing a two-putt birdie. His drive on the par-4 17th landed powerfully, setting up another birdie opportunity.
Højgaard Remains a Threat
Nicolai Højgaard is hot on Woodland’s heels, carding a 63 and demonstrating impressive form with 15 birdies and one eagle over the last two rounds. The Danish golfer is looking for his first PGA TOUR victory, having already secured three wins on the DP World Tour, including the DP World Tour Championship in 2023.
The Race to the Masters
The tournament also holds significance for other players. Defending champion Min Woo Lee and Michael Thorbjornsen are five shots behind, with Thorbjornsen aiming to secure a Masters invitation by finishing within the top 50 in the world rankings. Højgaard, currently at No. 47, is virtually assured a spot, while Woodland would need a win to return to Augusta.
However, for Woodland, the pursuit of a victory transcends the perks of a Masters invitation. It represents a powerful symbol of overcoming adversity and reclaiming his place among golf’s elite. You can find more information about mental health resources at the National Institute of Mental Health.
Source: PGA TOUR
