Gary Woodland savors Masters return after brain surgery, PTSD battle nearly ended his career

Chef Eric Levine recreates Rory McIlroy’s Masters Champions Dinner menu and offers Fox News hosts a taste of the exclusive Augusta National event on 'Fox & Friends Weekend.'

Gary Woodland’s return to Augusta National Golf Club carries added significance this year after he pulled off a surprising win at the Houston Open in March.

Woodland embraced the moment at Augusta National this week, reflecting on the tradition and significance of the Masters.

"I love this place," Woodland said Tuesday. "I love the tradition. There’s nothing like driving down Magnolia Lane. I definitely drove down a little slower this year than I ever have, even the first time I was here in 2011. I’m definitely taking it all in this week for sure."

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Gary Woodland hits balls at the practice facility during a practice round for the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia, on April 7, 2026. (Bill Streicher/Imagn Images)

However, Woodland also acknowledged that the crowds and close quarters at Augusta National could be triggering.

"It's a big week for me this week," he said. "The fans are very close on the tee boxes. There's a lot going on. 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. That's a tough pill to swallow."

PHIL MICKELSON WITHDRAWS FROM THE MASTERS, JOINS TIGER WOODS IN SITTING OUT SIGNATURE MAJOR

Woodland, who won the 2019 U.S. Open, recently revealed that he has battled post-traumatic stress disorder for roughly a year. In 2023, he underwent a procedure to remove a benign brain lesion that triggered seizures, anxiety and fear.

But even after the surgery, Woodland’s