Gary Woodland claimed his first PGA Tour victory since the 2019 US Open at the Houston Open on Sunday, capping a remarkable recovery from brain surgery and post-traumatic stress disorder. The 41-year-old American closed with a three-under-par 67 to win by five shots from Nicolai Hojgaard at Memorial Park.
Woodland, who had a lesion removed from his brain in September 2023, broke down in tears after sinking the winning putt. He said: 'We play an individual sport out here, but I wasn't alone today. Anyone struggling with something, I hope they see me and don't give up. Just keep fighting.'
His victory comes just two weeks after he opened up about his battles with PTSD in a television interview, describing how he had left the course mid-round to cry. 'I appreciate that love and support. But inside, I feel like I’m dying, and I feel like I’m living a lie,' he said.
Woodland received a touching tribute from his fellow competitors: Hojgaard and defending champion Min Woo Lee deliberately held back to let him walk alone to the 18th green, a rare gesture of respect. 'We thought it was appropriate to let him have his moment,' Hojgaard said.
The win moves Woodland to 51st in the world rankings, his highest in five years, and secures him a place in the Masters in two weeks. He paid tribute to his wife, Gabby Granado, calling her 'vital' to his recovery. 'This has been hard on me. It’s been a lot harder on her,' he said.
