Woodland wins Houston Open, first title since brain surgery - ESPN

HOUSTON — Gary Woodland won the Houston Open on Sunday, an emotional moment that seemed so improbable 30 months ago when he had brain surgery, and even two weeks ago when he opened up about his frightening struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder.

Woodland looked better than ever at Memorial Park, taking a one-shot lead into the final round and stretching it to seven shots until coasting home to a trophy that felt as big as his U.S. Open title at Pebble Beach in 2019.

He closed with a 3-under 67 to win by five shots over Nicolai Hojgaard.

The gallery paused chanting his name so Woodland could roll in a 5-foot par putt. He stretched both arms, exhaled and looked to the blue sky before his tears began pouring.

June 2019: Wins U.S. Open by 3 shots at Pebble Beach for 4th PGA Tour win and lone major victory
Feb. 2022: Falls to 142nd in Official World Golf Ranking, his lowest world ranking since 2013
Aug. 2023: Announces brain tumor diagnosis, which was discovered in May
Sept. 2023: Undergoes brain surgery that removes part of tumor
Jan. 2024: Returns to action on PGA Tour at Sony Open, but does not record top-10 finish until October at Shriners Children's Open
Jan. 2025: Falls outside OWGR Top 200
Feb. 2025: Receives PGA Tour Courage Award
March 2026: Reveals PTSD diagnosis
Sunday: Wins Houston Open for first PGA TOUR win in more than 6 years, setting 72-hole tournament scoring record in process (259)

«We play an individual sport out here, but I wasn't alone today,» Woodland said, his voice quivering with emotion. «Anyone struggling with something, I hope they see me and don't give up. Just keep fighting.»

Woodland has been a popular figure and powerful player since he left a two-sport college career (basketball, golf)