Gary Woodland returns to Augusta National with enhanced security measures
Gary Woodland is back at Augusta National this week, but his return to the Masters comes with some extra support in place, reports BritPanorama.
The 41-year-old American golfer, who triumphed at the 2019 US Open, has been coping with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following brain tumour surgery in 2023. In light of his ongoing struggles, Woodland has coordinated special security when approaching the tournament.
Prior to the event, Woodland met with Augusta’s security team to discuss specific positions for guards around the course. “Just like on tour, I’ll have security with me,” he stated. “The main deal is they were showing me where security is.”
For Woodland, visibility of security personnel serves as an essential reassurance. Following a remarkable comeback at the Houston Open, where he overcame intense internal challenges, he now possesses a mental map indicating where security is situated on every hole at Augusta. His caddie is also briefed on the plan, poised to offer constant reassurance as needed.
During the Houston tournament, Woodland faced episodes of severe hypervigilance, perceiving potential threats from spectators. “I had a big battle Friday of Houston. I got hypervigilant on the ninth hole and I battled the last 10 holes thinking people were trying to kill me,” he expressed, reflecting on the mental toll of the competition.
His successful finish at 21 under par, five shots ahead of Nicolai Hojgaard, marked a significant achievement yet belied his internal struggles. Few observers realised the extent of his battle during that tournament, which reinforces the hidden challenges athletes can face.
Opening up about his mental health has been transformative for Woodland, who first revealed his PTSD diagnosis at The Players Championship earlier this year, shortly before his victory in Houston. “Speaking about it and how I feel afterwards made me a lot stronger,” he noted. “I feel a lot stronger now than I did three weeks ago, I can tell you that.”
As the Masters unfolds, Woodland faces yet another challenge, with close proximity of patrons at the venue adding to his anxiety, despite the event being regarded as one of the safest in golf. “There’s probably not a safer golf tournament in the world, so I’m happy for that, but it’s still a battle in my head if I’m safe or not.”
As Woodland navigates his mental hurdles amidst the famed Augusta greens, his story serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between personal battles and public performance in the world of sports.
