Gary Woodland makes emotional return to PGA tour after battling brain tumour, aims to inspire kids

PGA champion Gary Woodland, who conquered the 2019 US Open, is set to make a remarkable comeback to the golfing scene after grappling with a brain tumour. The 39-year-old golfer, diagnosed last May and subsequently undergoing surgery in September, is opening up about the daunting experience that left him fearing for his life, ahead of his anticipated return this week.

Woodland shared, “It was incredibly emotional—I spent four-and-a-half months every day grappling with the thought that I might not make it.”

Despite reassurances from doctors, the hidden brain injury weighed heavily on him, causing intense anxiety in everyday situations. “I lived with this constant fear that any moment could be my last,” he admitted.

The former world number 12, bracing himself for the Sony Open in Hawaii, is returning to competitive golf for the first time since August, persevering through symptoms that emerged shortly after the previous year’s Masters.

A specialist later identified his condition as partial seizures, leading to Woodland’s hiatus from golf and the subsequent surgery to remove a significant portion of the tumour.

Reflecting on his comeback, Woodland expressed, “My aim is to show that you can tackle challenging circumstances. I want to demonstrate to my kids that no obstacle can deter you. Life isn’t always smooth sailing.”

“This was unexpected, but I refuse to let it hinder me,” he affirmed, looking ahead to his comeback tournament.