Udleland, Awarded the Courage Award for Overcoming Adversity
by Roh Woolae
Published 27 Feb.2025 08:26(KST)
Updated 27 Feb.2025 15:38(KST)
Returned to PGA Tour After Brain Surgery, Shows Former Skills
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"If It Weren't for Those Who Helped Me, I Wouldn't Be Here"
Gary Woodland (USA), who returned to the tour after brain surgery, received the Courage Award given to players who have overcome adversity.
Jay Monahan, PGA Tour Commissioner, presented the Courage Award to Woodland on the 26th (local time), a day before the Cognizant Classic, at the PGA National Resort in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, where the tournament is held. The PGA Tour Courage Award is given to players recognized for overcoming injuries, illnesses, or tragic events and making significant contributions to golf.
Woodland is a player who has won four times on the PGA Tour, including the 2019 major tournament US Open. In 2023, he underwent major surgery to remove a lesion by drilling a baseball-sized hole in his brain. After treatment, he returned to the tour last year, participating in 26 tournaments, and finished tied for 9th at the Shriners Children's Open, marking his first top 10 finish since his comeback.
This year, Woodland has competed in four events, making the cut three times and showing steady performance, including a tie for 16th at the Sony Open. He said, "I wouldn't be here without the people who helped me. This award should go not to me, but to everyone who supported me." Last year, Chris Kirk (USA), who overcame alcoholism, received the Courage Award.
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