After undergoing surgery to remove a legion in his brain, the U.S. Open champion says he’s ‘progressing.’
On Sept. 18, Gary Woodland’s family updated his followers that his brain surgery and tumor removal was successful. The news was a relief, but it was still unclear when fans would see the U.S. Open champion swinging again.
Now, less than two months after the procedure, Woodland is not only holding a club, but it appears that he is gearing up for a return to competition in the coming year.
“This journey has been very hard but I’m extremely thankful to be progressing and for the unconditional love and support from everyone,” Woodland wrote on Instagram. “You’ve all made this process a little easier for me and my family. Thank you to everyone and I look forward to seeing you all next year.”
Woodland accompanied the message with a slow-motion swing video, in which he stripes an iron from an indoor-outdoor practice facility. Comments from fans poured in, wishing the 39-year-old a continued speedy recovery.
Woodland first announced his health development on Aug. 30.
“I was diagnosed a few months ago and have been trying to treat symptoms with medication,” Woodland wrote. “After consulting with multiple specialists and discussing with my family, we’ve made the decision that surgery to remove the lesion is the best course of action.”
On Sept. 18, Woodland’s team shared that the “majority” of the tumor had been removed.
Woodland made his last PGA Tour start at the Wyndham Championship, where he finished T27. He failed to qualify for the FedEx Cup playoffs, but the Kansas alum posted four top-20 finishes before his procedure and extended absence.
SOURCE: SI.COM