Gary Woodland Wins PGA Tour Courage Award Amid Health Battle

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. – The PGA TOUR announced Wednesday that Gary Woodland, a four-time winner on the tour and 2019 U.S. Open champion, has received the PGA TOUR Courage Award. This recognition comes following his battle with health issues throughout the 2023 season, culminating in brain surgery in September to address a pressing lesion.

The award, established in 2012, honors individuals who have demonstrated exceptional courage in overcoming personal adversity within the sport of golf. Woodland, age 40, is the seventh recipient, joining a notable list that includes Erik Compton and Chris Kirk.

Woodland received the award during an interview with Michael Strahan aired on ABC’s “Good Morning America,” and was formally presented with it at the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches. PGA TOUR Commissioner Jay Monahan praised Woodland’s determination, stating, “Gary’s journey has been well documented, and the fact that he has overcome so many challenges is nothing short of miraculous.”

As part of the award, the PGA TOUR contributes $25,000 to a charity of the recipient’s choice. Woodland designated Champion Charities, which focuses on research and support related to brain conditions. Additionally, he and his wife, Gabby, will match this donation, bringing the total to $50,000.

Born in Topeka, Kansas, Woodland turned professional in 2007 after graduating from the University of Kansas. He gained significant recognition for winning the U.S. Open at Pebble Beach and representing the U.S. Team at the 2019 Presidents Cup.

Woodland’s medical concerns began in May 2023, marked by unexplained symptoms. An MRI revealed a brain lesion affecting his emotions, leading to a craniotomy on September 19. Surgeons successfully removed most of the tumor, confirming it was benign.

Following his recovery, Woodland returned to competition in January 2024 at the Sony Open in Hawaii, where he faced challenges but remained determined. He recorded three top-25 finishes throughout the updated season, including a T9 at the Shriners Children’s Open.

“The mental aspect was monumental,” Woodland reflected in a recent episode of “Full Swing,” a Netflix docuseries covering his journey. He shared poignant moments, such as writing letters to his family before surgery, which he described as “the hardest thing I’ve ever done.”

Despite the struggles, Woodland’s resilience has impressed colleagues. Fellow golfer Justin Thomas expressed his support, saying, “It’s a helpless feeling as a friend to see what he’s going through.” Woodland’s resolve continues to inspire both fans and fellow athletes.

As he navigates recovery, Woodland aims to secure his status on the PGA TOUR for the 2026 season, needing strong finishes in the upcoming events. He remains optimistic about his future in golf, stating, “I love showing up at these places. The best golf courses in the world, the people you’re out here with day in and day out.”

Woodland’s journey, which has included the challenges of physical recovery along with mental health management, is ongoing. He emphasizes the importance of sharing his story with others who face similar battles, noting, “I have to do things to stay healthy, and it’s not easy.”