Two-time major champion Justin Thomas announced on Friday that he has undergone back surgery and will miss the start of the 2026 PGA Tour season. The procedure was performed to relieve ongoing discomfort in his back and hip area, which has affected his play in recent months.
Thomas did not disclose the specific details of the surgery, nor how long he anticipates being out of competition. However, he indicated that the decision was made in consultation with his medical team after months of managing pain and limited mobility.
Thomas expressed optimism about his recovery and emphasized that the surgery was necessary for his long-term health and career longevity. “After dealing with discomfort for an extended period and working with doctors on a treatment plan, I decided that surgery was the best step toward getting back to full strength,” Thomas said in a statement.
The 32-year-old has been a consistent presence on the PGA Tour since turning professional in 2013. He claimed the PGA Championship in 2017 and again in 2022, and has recorded multiple Tour victories throughout his career. Thomas has also been a member of U.S. teams in the Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup.
In 2025, Thomas struggled to find consistent form and did not contend as frequently in major tournaments. Observers noted signs of physical limitation, which Thomas now attributes to the underlying back and hip issues.
Though no timeline for his return has been officially set, Thomas has stated that he hopes to rejoin the Tour once he receives medical clearance and completes his rehabilitation process. His team has indicated that he will take a cautious approach to his recovery to ensure long-term stability.
Thomas thanked fans for their support and said he looks forward to returning to competition when fully healthy. His absence from the early portion of the 2026 season will be notable, given his stature on the Tour and popularity with fans.
Further updates on Thomas’ recovery and potential return schedule are expected in the coming months.
