Gary Woodland is back at Augusta for the first time since 2024 and is grappling with emotional challenges, including anxiety and PTSD stemming from personal tragedies, including the loss of a twin son and a brain lesion surgery. Although he won the Houston Open recently—his first victory in nearly seven years—he continues to feel uneasy in crowds and fears for his safety, necessitating heavy security at the Masters.
Woodland shared that the presence of security provides him comfort, making him feel safe and allowing him to focus on his performance. He described his mental battles while competing, noting that the smallest surprises can trigger his anxiety.
Despite his professional success, including a U.S. Open win, Woodland’s journey has been fraught with difficulties. His love for golf serves as a motivating force, helping him navigate his struggles. He expressed a desire for his story to inspire others facing similar challenges and emphasized the importance of sharing burdens rather than facing them alone.
While he dreams of winning at Augusta, Woodland remains focused on the present, saying, “We have to worry about today. We just don’t have the luxury of thinking ahead.”
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