Golfer Gary Woodland Returns to Masters After Brain Surgery

Gary Woodland is savoring every moment at Augusta National this week, and he has good reason to drive slowly down Magnolia Lane. The 41-year-old golfer is competing in the Masters after brain surgery and a battle with PTSD nearly ended his career forever.

Woodland, who won the 2019 U.S. Open, underwent surgery in 2023 to remove a benign brain lesion that caused seizures, anxiety and fear. Even after the procedure, his symptoms continued, and doctors diagnosed him with post-traumatic stress disorder.

The diagnosis changed everything about how Woodland experiences golf tournaments. He now works closely with security teams at every event, visually locating officers on each hole to remind himself he's safe.

"I battled the last 10 holes thinking people were trying to kill me," Woodland said about a recent round at the Houston Open. His security team stayed visible throughout the weekend after he shared what he was experiencing.

That Houston Open victory in March was more than just a win. It secured Woodland the last spot in the highly competitive Masters field, bringing him back to a tournament he loves.

This week at Augusta National, Woodland met with security officials who showed him where officers are stationed throughout the course. The crowds at the Masters gather close to the tee boxes, which can be triggering, but knowing where help is located gives him peace of mind.

Why This Inspires

Woodland's openness about his mental health struggles is helping break down stigma in professional sports. By sharing his story, he's showing other athletes that seeking help is strength, not weakness.

His return to the Masters represents far more than athletic achievement. Months before his 2023 surgery, he finished tied for 14th at Augusta National, not knowing how his life was about to change.

"I'm emotional from the standpoint I know how close I probably was to never being back here," Woodland said. He's proud of earning his way back to the tournament through hard work and perseverance.

The golfer has a clear perspective on what truly matters now. "It doesn't matter if I win or lose," he said about living with PTSD and recovering from brain surgery.

Woodland is taking it all in this week, embracing the tradition and significance of competing at one of golf's most prestigious events after everything he's overcome.