Gary Woodland says how he feels since his return from brain surgery after sharing the lead at the Shriners Children’s Open

Add as preferred source on Google

Gary Woodland enjoyed a superb first three rounds at the Shriners Children’s Open to give himself his best chance of success for some time.

Woodland was delighted with his putting ahead of the US Open earlier this year, as he continued his comeback from brain surgery.

The 2019 US Open champion underwent surgery on a brain lesion in September 2023, which was successful.

Woodland shared footage of himself on the range one year on, with the American undoubtedly taking it easy on the course.

But he is now in Las Vegas for the Shriners Children’s Open, enjoying a share of the clubhouse lead after 54 holes.

Gary Woodland shares thoughts since his return from brain injury

Play was then suspended due to darkness, with Woodland and Kurt Kitayama trailing by J.T. Poston and Doug Ghim by one shot at that stage.

As quoted by the PGA Tour website, Woodland has now shared his feelings after experiencing such a difficult issue.

READ MORE: ​​Joel Dahmen makes claim about his caddie after being given penalty for having too many clubs at the Shriners Children’s Open

“I feel a lot better for one,” he said. “That’s a huge help. But I’ve seen some signs. I’ve been back with Randy Smith for a couple months now.

“I am starting to drive it better, iron play, controlling the golf ball like I haven’t in a long time, which is nice. Then putts start going in, start putting some good scores up. I’m excited and happy to be here – and really happy to finish tonight so I can get some sleep tomorrow.”

Former US Open champion Gary Woodland in Shriners Children’s Open contention

The American’s brain lesion was situated on a tract causing fear and anxiety, but medication has helped his progress.

Also easing his transition back onto the course has been Smith, with the Hall of Fame coach undoubtedly key to Woodland impressing lately.

The four-time PGA Tour winner carded rounds of 66, 68 and 65 to remain in contention at TPC Summerlin.

READ MORE: Golf fans left stunned as PGA Tour player five putts from ten feet at the Shriners Children’s Open

It comes after Woodland missed the cut at the Procore Championship and finished T16 at the Sanderson Farms Open.

The Black Desert Championship came next in the FedExCup Fall schedule, with the Zozo Championship taking place after the Shriners Children’s Open.