Gary Woodland Opens Up on PTSD Struggles After Brain Surgery

Former US Open champion reveals mental health battles ahead of Masters return

Apr. 8, 2026 at 1:23pm

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Gary Woodland, the former US Open champion, has opened up about his ongoing struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following brain surgery in 2023. Woodland, who recently secured his return to the Masters with a victory at the Houston Open, has been battling intense feelings of 'hypervigilance' and the belief that people are 'trying to kill me', even in the serene surroundings of Augusta National.

Why it matters

Woodland's candid admission about his mental health challenges represents a powerful disclosure that could resonate with others grappling with trauma, anxiety, and PTSD. His story highlights the importance of seeking help and the need to destigmatize discussions around mental health, especially in the high-pressure world of professional sports.

The details

The profound internal turmoil Woodland experiences stems from a brain lesion discovered in 2023, which had been fueling unfounded fears of dying. In September of that year, he underwent surgery to remove as much of the growth as possible, creating a baseball-sized opening in the side of his head. Woodland returned to the golf course in January 2024 and gradually regained his form, eventually winning the Houston Open last month. However, he has been crippled by PTSD, often retreating to bathrooms to weep and constantly feeling as though he is being targeted.

  • In September 2023, Woodland underwent brain surgery to remove a lesion.
  • Woodland returned to the golf course in January 2024.
  • Woodland won the Houston Open last month, his first victory since the 2019 US Open.

The players

Gary Woodland

A former US Open champion who recently secured his return to the Masters with a victory at the Houston Open, but has been battling ongoing mental health struggles, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), following brain surgery in 2023.

Nicolai Hojgaard

The runner-up to Woodland at the Houston Open.

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What they’re saying

“I talked to (PGA) Tour security that night and I told them what I was going through, and every time I looked up on the weekend, my security team was behind me. Any time I got startled on the weekend, I turn around — last year I didn't talk to Tour security. I fought this on my own. It was awful.”

— Gary Woodland, Professional Golfer

“Turning around and knowing I'm safe, having somebody there with me? It's the only reason I won two weeks ago.”

— Gary Woodland, Professional Golfer

“We live in a world, as men and especially as an athlete, that you put your head down and you fight through it. I've done it my whole life. This is honestly one battle that I'm not able to do on my own. I tried, and it wasn't working.”

— Gary Woodland, Professional Golfer

What’s next

The Masters presents another significant test for Woodland, as the close proximity of patrons to players, particularly on the tees, can be challenging. The PGA Tour has collaborated with the Masters to ensure Woodland receives the necessary security to feel safe during the tournament.

The takeaway

Woodland's story highlights the importance of destigmatizing discussions around mental health, especially in the high-pressure world of professional sports. His willingness to openly share his struggles with PTSD could inspire others to seek help and support, and help break down the stigma surrounding mental health issues.