**Gary Woodland Shares Journey Through Health Struggles and Triumphs**
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Gary-Woodland-of-the-United-States-smiles-as-he-walks-100126-b56338ccd34f4277a2b61f67ae95b515.jpg)
Professional golfer Gary Woodland, renowned for his five PGA Tour victories, is candidly discussing his ongoing battle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as well as his recent health complications following brain surgery. This disclosure coincides with his partnership with AbbVie’s “Birdies for Brain Health” initiative, which aims to raise awareness about mental health issues.
Woodland, who acquired a loyal following since turning professional in 2007, revealed his health challenges publicly for the first time in March. Nearly three years after his brain surgery, which involved the extraction of a lesion, his path has transformed from being a celebrated athlete to one who inspires others grappling with similar issues. Recalling his experiences, he emphasised the importance of solidarity in facing mental health battles: “At the end of the day, the one thing I want people to realise is you’re not alone in your fight,” he stated in an interview with PEOPLE.
In January 2024, Woodland triumphantly resumed his tour after surgery. However, he faced considerable emotional hurdles in competitive settings. The golfer had previously claimed the Houston Open on March 29, 2026, his first win since his 2019 U.S. Open victory. Reflecting on his journey, Woodland shared, “I hear that every week: ‘It’s so nice to see you past this.’ And I appreciate that love and support, but inside, I feel like I’m dying.”
The golfer recounted an instance where a fellow player unintentionally triggered memories of his health struggles, underscoring the omnipresent nature of his PTSD. Remarkably, he won the Houston Open a fortnight later, an achievement he attributed partly to the emotional release he felt after discussing his mental health. Woodland expressed it was liberating to speak openly about his struggles: “The amount of energy I was wasting on a daily basis trying to hide it and not talk about it… Mental health affects a lot more than just the person that’s battling it.”
After his victory, Woodland noted that while the win felt significant, it was just one part of a larger battle he continues to face. “I’ve got a big fight ahead of me, and I’m going to keep going. But I’m proud of myself right now,” he asserted during a press conference at the tournament.
During 2026, Woodland participated in 22 events, finishing on the weekend in 16 of them, and managed six top-10 placements, including commendable finishes at prestigious tournaments such as the U.S. Open and the RBC Heritage. His strong performance culminated in a fourth-place tie at the BMW Championship in August, granting him a spot in the Tour Championship for the first time in seven years.
Despite external distractions, including rivalry banter from fans during competitions, Woodland remained focused and resilient. He attributed much of his success to the backing of his family, including his wife Gabby and their three children, who have been an integral source of strength throughout his ordeal. “This year is by far the most proud of myself I’ve ever been,” he remarked, acknowledging the collective effort behind his achievements.
Woodland’s journey showcases the complexities of dealing with both physical and mental health challenges, and his willingness to share his experiences signifies a push to destigmatise discussions around mental illness in sports. In a world where many suffer in silence, he encourages others facing similar adversities to reach out for help, reinforcing the message that no one should have to navigate their struggles alone.
For those grappling with mental health difficulties or seeking support, resources are available around the clock, with options to call or text 988 or chat online at 988lifeline.org. Woodland’s openness serves not only as a testament to his resilience but also as an invitation for others to seek and offer support.