PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Florida – Gary Woodland, the 2019 U.S. Open champion, is competing at The Players Championship this week whereas openly grappling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) stemming from a life-threatening brain lesion discovered in 2023. In a candid interview with Golf Channel, Woodland revealed he has been battling the condition for approximately a year, a struggle he previously concealed from the public and, at times, even from himself. His decision to speak out marks a significant shift for the 41-year-old golfer, who hopes sharing his experience will alleviate the burden of secrecy and allow him to focus on his recovery and his passion for the game.
Woodland’s journey began with the discovery of a lesion pressing on his brain, leading to surgery in September 2023. While the procedure successfully stopped the seizures he had been experiencing, the aftermath proved far more challenging than anticipated. He returned to competitive golf in January 2024, but the return wasn’t the triumphant homecoming many expected. Woodland described a persistent internal conflict, a feeling of living a lie despite the outward appearance of recovery. “Every week, I come out and everyone is so excited and happy that I’m back,” he told Golf Channel. “I hear that every week: ‘It’s so nice to see you passed this. It’s so nice to see you 100%.’ And I appreciate that love and support, but inside, I experience like I’m dying. I feel like I’m living a lie. And I don’t want to waste energy on that anymore.”
The emotional toll of his experience manifested in unsettling ways on the course. Woodland recounted a particularly harrowing moment during the Procore Championship last fall, a tournament many American players used as preparation for the Ryder Cup, where he served as a vice-captain. He described an episode where a walking scorer inadvertently startled him, triggering a cascade of disorienting symptoms. “I stepped aside, I pulled my caddie and said, ‘This stuff is hitting me, man. You can’t let anybody get behind me,’” Woodland recalled. “Next thing you understand, I couldn’t remember what I was doing. My eyesight started to get blurry.” He ultimately completed the round, but the incident underscored the profound impact of his PTSD.
The Diagnosis and the Weight of Silence
Woodland received a formal diagnosis of PTSD roughly a year after his surgery, according to reports from ESPN and the PGA Tour. PTSD is a mental health condition triggered by a terrifying event – in Woodland’s case, the brain surgery and the fear of recurrence – and is characterized by symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and hypervigilance. The National Center for PTSD, a part of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, defines hypervigilance as being “on constant alert” and easily startled. The VA’s website provides comprehensive information about the condition and available resources.
For months, Woodland concealed his diagnosis, fearing judgment and a perceived expectation to present a facade of complete recovery. He acknowledged the pressure to appear strong and grateful for the opportunity to return to professional golf, but confessed that maintaining this image was emotionally exhausting. “I can’t waste energy anymore hiding this,” he stated. “I’m blessed with a lot of support out here on the TOUR… But inside, I feel like I’m dying, and I feel like I’m living a lie.” This internal struggle led to moments of intense distress, including crying in the scorer’s trailer and abruptly leaving events to cope with overwhelming anxiety.
PGA Tour Support and the Road Ahead
Woodland has publicly praised the PGA Tour for its support during his recovery, noting the implementation of protocols to ensure his safety and provide additional security while he competes. The PGA Tour has increasingly focused on mental health resources for its players in recent years, recognizing the unique pressures and challenges faced by professional athletes. In 2025, Woodland was awarded the PGA Tour Courage Award, recognizing his resilience and determination in returning to the sport following his surgery, as reported by the BBC. The award highlights the Tour’s commitment to supporting players facing significant personal challenges.
Despite acknowledging that doctors have suggested a less stressful environment might be more conducive to his overall well-being, Woodland remains resolute in his commitment to playing golf. “Doctors have said in an ideal world, I’m probably not playing,” he admitted to Golf Channel. “I’m probably not in a stressful, overstimulating environment. But my response was, in an ideal world, I don’t have [PTSD]. [Golf] is my dream, What we have is what I’m going to do, and no matter how hard it is, I’m going to play.” This unwavering determination reflects his deep passion for the game and his belief that continuing to compete can be a positive force in his recovery.
Woodland’s openness about his struggles is expected to resonate with many, both within and outside the golfing community. His willingness to share his vulnerability may encourage others facing similar challenges to seek help and break down the stigma surrounding mental health. The conversation surrounding mental health in sports is gaining momentum, with more athletes speaking out about their experiences and advocating for increased resources and support. Woodland’s story adds a powerful voice to this growing movement.
“Inside, I feel like I’m dying, and I feel like I’m living a lie.”
Gary Woodland opens up about his battle with PTSD following brain surgery. https://t.co/q9q9q9q9q9 pic.twitter.com/q9q9q9q9q9— Golf Channel (@GolfChannel) March 9, 2026
Understanding PTSD and Seeking Help
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a complex condition that can affect anyone who has experienced a traumatic event. Symptoms can vary widely and may include intrusive thoughts, nightmares, avoidance behaviors, negative changes in mood and thinking, and hyperarousal. According to the American Psychiatric Association, PTSD affects approximately 3.6% of U.S. Adults each year. Effective treatments for PTSD include psychotherapy (talk therapy) and medication.
If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD, resources are available. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers a helpline and support groups: https://www.nami.org/. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) also provides a national helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357). SAMHSA’s website offers a wealth of information and resources on mental health and substance use disorders.
Woodland’s participation in The Players Championship this week represents not only a continuation of his professional career but also a courageous step forward in his personal journey. His openness about his struggles with PTSD is a testament to his strength and resilience, and his story serves as a powerful reminder that seeking help is a sign of courage, not weakness.
The next scheduled event for Gary Woodland is currently listed as the Masters Tournament in April, though his participation will likely depend on his ongoing recovery and management of his PTSD. Readers are encouraged to share their thoughts and support for Woodland in the comments below.