Collin Morikawa says he is feeling better after the back issue that forced him to withdraw unexpectedly from the Players Championship and believes he will be back to full strength in the near future.
Morikawa, a two-time major champion known for his precise ball-striking and calm demeanor under pressure, left last week’s event earlier than planned after experiencing discomfort in his back. The withdrawal came as a surprise to many observers, as Morikawa had not been widely reported to be dealing with a significant injury prior to the tournament.
In comments since the Players Championship, Morikawa indicated that the problem is improving and that he and his team are focused on recovery and a measured return to normal practice and competition routines. While he did not provide a detailed medical diagnosis or a specific timeline for his next start, his message has been that the issue is trending in the right direction and that he expects to be competing without limitation before long.
Back problems are a familiar concern in professional golf, where the repetitive, high-speed nature of the swing places sustained stress on the spine and surrounding muscles. Players often react quickly to any sign of discomfort in that area, choosing caution over risk to avoid making a minor setback worse. Morikawa’s decision to step away from the Players Championship mid-event was in line with that approach, prioritizing long-term health over a single week’s result.
The timing of his recovery will be closely watched, given his status as one of the sport’s leading players and a regular presence in major championships and high-profile events. For now, the key update from Morikawa is that he considers his back to be on the mend and is confident that he will soon return to his usual level of preparation and performance.
As he continues to monitor his condition, Morikawa’s focus appears to be on regaining full mobility and comfort in his swing. He has conveyed optimism that the setback will be short-lived, offering reassurance that he expects to compete again at full strength in the near future.