Gary Woodland, a prominent PGA Tour golfer, underwent brain surgery on September 18, 2023, to remove a lesion. Prior to the surgery, Woodland attempted to manage the condition with medication, but those efforts proved unsuccessful. Reflecting on his journey, Woodland admitted the ordeal was one of the most challenging experiences of his life, leaving him fearing for his survival.
Less than four months after his surgery, Woodland returned to competitive golf at the 2024 Sony Open in Hawaii. While his comeback was marked by missing the cut after scoring a 2-over in 36 holes, Woodland expressed his excitement to be back on the course. Recounting his experiences at a press conference ahead of the Sony Open, he revealed the emotional and physical toll the past year had taken on him. He described moments of overwhelming distress, including episodes of crying and feelings of despair. His return to familiar places triggered memories of seizures and other traumatic events, compounding his struggle with PTSD.
Despite the setbacks, Woodland took time away from golf to develop a comprehensive recovery plan with the help of his medical team. By 2024, he competed in 26 events, making the cut in 15 of them and achieving a notable T9 finish at the Shriners Children’s Open. Acknowledging the permanent changes to his health, Woodland shared that he is now on medication indefinitely and has had to adopt a new approach to life. Simple routines, such as getting out of bed or falling asleep, have become more complicated.
To cope, Woodland has implemented several positive lifestyle changes. He incorporates daily breathwork exercises, which he practices in the morning and evening to calm his brain and prepare for the day. These routines are designed to enhance his stamina and ability to handle stimulation. Woodland also prioritizes recognizing when he is overstimulated and intentionally takes breaks to reset.
These changes have given Woodland a renewed sense of hope. He noted that while his recovery requires significant daily effort, the improvements he has experienced have made the journey worthwhile. Over time, he has begun to see progress, which has been a source of optimism for him. Woodland remarked that the breathwork and other practices have not only helped him manage his symptoms but have also allowed him to approach his career with a fresh perspective. He believes these adjustments will make him a better golfer.
Woodland has also found joy in spending quality time with his family, including his wife, Gaby, and their three children. He shared a cherished moment from Augusta National, where they posed together as a family, reflecting on the importance of these connections. His new mindset has enabled him to embrace his role as a husband and father more fully.
Looking ahead, Woodland is optimistic about his future. He recognizes the challenges of his journey but remains committed to his recovery and growth. His recent improvements have left him more hopeful than ever, inspiring him to continue pursuing his goals on and off the course.