Gary Woodland’s Emotional Return to Augusta National

This year, Gary Woodland’s comeback at Augusta National holds greater weight, especially after his unexpected victory at the Houston Open in March.

Reflecting on his experiences at Augusta, Woodland expressed his appreciation for the history and significance of the Masters. “I truly adore this place,” he shared on Tuesday. “Driving down Magnolia Lane is just incredible. When I first arrived in 2011, I remember taking it all in. This year, I’ve definitely slowed down and really absorbed everything.” It’s clear he cherishes the moment.

However, he did note that the crowds can be intense. “This week is significant for me,” Woodland admitted. “The fans gather tightly at the tee box; there’s a lot happening. Although it’s perhaps one of the safest tournaments, the mental struggle about safety can be overwhelming.” It’s like a constant balancing act in his mind.

Having won the U.S. Open in 2019, Woodland recently opened up about dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder for around a year. He underwent surgery in 2023 to remove a benign brain lesion that had been causing him seizures and anxiety.

Even after the operation, his symptoms lingered, and he received a PTSD diagnosis later on.

During the week, Woodland attended a national conference in Augusta with security personnel. “They showed me where the security was stationed,” he mentioned. “For me, having that visual is really important. If I can see them, I can convince myself I’m safe.” It seems like a small comfort, but a necessary one.

Reflecting on his recent experience at the Houston Open, Woodland recounted a tense moment during the second round. “I felt on edge for the last ten holes. It was challenging,” he described. “Even with security around, I found myself uneasy. That night, I shared my feelings with the tournament’s security. Thankfully, they were there for me.”

His win at the Houston Open secured him a spot in the Masters, an achievement he didn’t take lightly.

Before his surgery in 2023, Woodland had tied for 14th at that year’s Masters. Unfortunately, he missed qualifying for the prestigious event in 2024 and the prior year as well.

“This has been an emotional journey, honestly,” Woodland reflected. “If not for my recent achievements, I really might not be here. I’m genuinely proud of my resilience.” He also noted, “When people ask me about my win, I can only think about my brain tumor and PTSD. Winning or losing? It doesn’t matter to me anymore.”