Gary Woodland, the 2019 U.S. Open champion, is set to confront personal challenges as he competes in the 2026 Masters at Augusta National. The golfer, who recently underwent brain surgery, has been navigating the complexities of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This comes after his operation in 2023 to remove part of a brain tumor.
Managing Anxiety and Stress at Augusta
As Woodland arrives at Augusta, he is not only strategizing his golf game but also paying attention to his surroundings. He has arranged for additional security personnel to help manage his anxiety during the tournament. This proactive measure allows him to feel safer on the course.
Background on PTSD
Woodland publicly disclosed his struggles with PTSD last month. Although he has faced these challenges since the surgery, his condition was officially diagnosed about a year ago. This has impacted his mental health significantly, especially in high-pressure situations like major golf tournaments.
Recent Success and Competing Pressure
- Won the Houston Open in late March 2026.
- First victory in seven years since becoming a major champion.
- Woodland is making his 13th Masters appearance this week.
Woodland will play alongside world number one Scottie Scheffler and Scottish golfer Robert MacIntyre in the opening rounds. The larger crowds at the Masters can amplify his anxiety, prompting him to take necessary precautions.
Finding Security on the Course
The 41-year-old golfer emphasized the importance of visual cues in managing his PTSD. “If I can see somebody, then I can remind myself that I’m safe constantly,” Woodland explained. His caddie also plays a role in this process, helping him stay aware of security locations on the course.
Unpredictable Triggers of PTSD
Woodland acknowledges that he can never predict when he might experience a PTSD episode. “It can be a fan, a walking scorer, or a camera operator passing by,” he shared. The golfer’s strategy to know where security is positioned serves as a vital reminder of safety amidst the challenges he faces.
As he prepares to tee off at this prestigious tournament, Woodland remains focused on managing his mental health while embracing the joy of competing.
