Gary Woodland expected support after his 2023 brain surgery. But he was unprepared for the overwhelming response he received last week. After opening up about his PTSD battle, the PGA Tour veteran found a connection with fans that surprised even him.

During the press conference at the Valspar Championship on Friday, Woodland reflected on the response he received after opening up about his condition:

“It's been amazing, to be honest with you. I obviously got a lot of love and support after coming out of brain surgery and all that, but it was a lot more last week. I was maybe a little surprised by that.”

Gary Woodland had undergone a procedure to remove a brain lesion in September 2023. The successful surgery marked the beginning of ongoing mental and emotional challenges.

Since then, the 41-year-old has been dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder, which has affected him both on and off the course. He has experienced anxiety, heightened awareness, and moments where he struggles to stay present during play.

Explaining why the response felt different this time, he added, “I think probably a lot of people could relate more to what I'm battling right now than they can relate to brain surgery, probably. But everyone's amazing out here. The family, the tour itself, the golf world, it's been amazing.”

Despite the difficulties, Woodland has continued to compete while working through the condition and seeking ways to manage it.

The four-time PGA Tour winner also admitted he was hesitant to speak publicly.

Gary Woodland Opens Up About Fear, Relief After Speaking Out

Speaking about the relief of opening up and shifting his focus inward, he shared, “I tell you what, I was nervous to come out. I've been, it's something I battled now for over a year.”

His caddie, Brennan Little, has been a crucial part of his recovery journey.

Before the surgery in September 2023, it was Little who noticed that something was not right. He pulled Woodland aside after seeing lapses in focus and moments where he could not recall his club selection, prompting a closer look at what was happening.

“But last week my caddie said it was the best he's seen me since he can remember. I think just releasing it now. I can focus my energy on myself and what I need to do to be successful, instead of wasting my energy trying to hide something. It's my reality, it's what I'm battling, and we'll get better, for sure.”

As Woodland returned to competition in 2024, that support continued on the course.

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Written by

Aditi Singh

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar