Gary Woodland's Inspiring Journey: Overcoming PTSD at Augusta

The 2019 US Open champion's return to the Masters in 2026 is a testament to resilience and the power of openness about mental health.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 6:15am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a golfer's swing broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color, conveying the complexity and intensity of competing at a major golf tournament.A cubist interpretation of a golfer's swing captures the mental and physical challenges of competing at the highest level.Houston Today

Gary Woodland, the 2019 US Open champion, will be competing at the 2026 Masters Tournament, where his journey with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) will be at the forefront. Woodland has bravely shared his struggles, revealing the impact of brain surgery and the subsequent PTSD diagnosis. His unique approach to managing his anxiety, which includes organizing extra on-course security, has been transformative, providing him with the strength to compete at the highest level.

Why it matters

Woodland's story challenges the stigma surrounding mental health in sports, encouraging a more holistic approach to athlete well-being. It raises important questions about how we can better support athletes in managing their mental health, especially in high-pressure environments like the Masters.

The details

Woodland's approach to dealing with PTSD involves creating a visual reminder of his safety by organizing extra security on the course. This strategy is not just about physical protection; it's a psychological tool to combat the unpredictability of triggers, as fans, walking scorers, and even camera guys can inadvertently cause episodes. The Houston Open victory, his first since becoming a major champion, is a testament to the effectiveness of his approach.

  • Woodland will be competing at the 2026 Masters Tournament.
  • Woodland won the 2019 US Open.

The players

Gary Woodland

A professional golfer who won the 2019 US Open and is set to compete at the 2026 Masters Tournament, where he will be open about his journey with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

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What’s next

Woodland's performance at the 2026 Masters Tournament will be closely watched, as his story continues to inspire and raise awareness about mental health in sports.

The takeaway

Gary Woodland's journey with PTSD and his unique approach to managing his anxiety on the golf course serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the potential for growth through vulnerability. His story challenges the stigma surrounding mental health in sports and encourages a more holistic approach to athlete well-being.