Justin Thomas to Return to Golf After Back Surgery

The former world No. 1 golfer will make his comeback at the new TGL league.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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Former world No. 1 golfer Justin Thomas is set to return to competitive golf after undergoing back surgery in November. Thomas will make his comeback at the new TGL league, a tech-infused golf league founded by Rory McIlroy, Tiger Woods, and others.

Why it matters

Thomas is one of the top golfers in the world, having won a major championship and reached the top of the world rankings. His return to golf after a successful surgery will be closely watched by fans and the golf industry.

The details

Thomas underwent a microdiscectomy procedure in November to address pain in his lower back. The surgery was successful, and Thomas is now ready to make his return to competitive golf at the inaugural season of the TGL league, a new tech-focused golf competition founded by a group of high-profile PGA Tour players including Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods.

  • Thomas underwent back surgery in November 2025.
  • Thomas will make his return at the TGL league's inaugural season in 2026.

The players

Justin Thomas

A former world No. 1 golfer who has won a major championship and is now returning to competitive golf after back surgery.

Rory McIlroy

One of the founders of the new TGL league that Thomas will be competing in.

Tiger Woods

Another founder of the new TGL league that Thomas will be competing in.

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What they’re saying

“Closest to the Pin”

— Tom D'Angelo, Columnist (The Palm Beach Post)

“Closest to the Pin”

— Eric Wallace, Deputy Sports Editor (The Palm Beach Post)

What’s next

Thomas will make his return to competitive golf at the inaugural season of the TGL league in 2026.

The takeaway

Justin Thomas' return to golf after a successful back surgery will be closely watched, as he looks to regain his form and compete at the highest level once again.