Gary Woodland has publicly acknowledged that he is living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following his 2023 brain surgery, saying he no longer wants to use energy trying to conceal what he is going through.
In an emotional interview with Golf Channel on Monday, Woodland explained that the aftermath of his procedure has been more than a purely physical recovery. The 2019 U.S. Open champion said he has been dealing with significant mental and emotional challenges since the surgery and has recently decided to be open about that struggle rather than keep it to himself.
According to Woodland, attempting to mask his condition had become both draining and counterproductive. He described how trying to maintain a façade of normalcy required energy that he feels is better devoted to his health, his family, and his continued efforts to compete. By speaking candidly, he indicated that he hopes to be more honest with himself and those around him about what he is facing each day.
Woodland framed his decision as a turning point in how he approaches both his personal life and his career. Instead of quietly carrying his symptoms, he said he wants to acknowledge them, address them, and move forward without the added burden of secrecy. He emphasized that PTSD, for him, is directly connected to the experience of undergoing brain surgery and dealing with the uncertainty and anxiety that followed.
The interview marked one of the first times Woodland has publicly attached the term PTSD to his post-surgery experience. He highlighted the emotional weight of the past few years and suggested that being transparent about his condition is part of a broader effort to heal.
While he did not share specific treatment details or a detailed competitive schedule, Woodland’s comments underscored the complexity of returning to high-level professional golf after a serious medical procedure. For the major champion, the path back is not only about regaining physical form, but also about managing mental health in a way that allows him to conserve energy, be present for his loved ones, and compete without feeling the need to hide what he is going through.
By choosing to speak openly, Woodland has brought attention to an aspect of athletes’ lives that is often kept private. His remarks suggest he is focused on moving forward with greater honesty about his condition and a clearer understanding of what he needs to sustain both his well-being and his career.
