And just like that, professional golfer Will Zalatoris has had a new back surgery, ending his season. The 2021 PGA Tour Rookie of the Year took to social media recently to announce some thrilling personal news. He shared that earlier this spring, he had surgery to repair two herniated disks in his back. This newest surgery comes on the heels of a litany of injuries that have defined much of his last three seasons.
It’s been a dream beginning — and a rocky start — for returner Will Zalatoris’s great, if nomadic path to the PGA Tour. Zero from 2020–2022, yet he was still able to finish in the top 10 of the most important major championships a combined six times. Notably, he was the runner-up at the 2021 Masters and finished second at both the PGA Championship and the U.S. Open in 2022. He scored a historic upset victory in 2022. Later that year, he scored his first PGA Tour victory at the FedEx St. Jude Championship, winning in an exhilarating playoff.
Injuries have severely impacted his performance. Then in August of 2022, Zalatoris suffered a major disappointment when he withdrew after injuring his back during the second round of the BMW Championship. Consequently, he had to scratch from the FedEx Cup playoffs. An MRI after the PGA Championship revealed substantial harm. In April, surgeons had to do a microdiscectomy, removing part of a herniated disk that was compressing a spinal nerve.
He thanked those who have supported him through this difficult time, voicing his appreciation that.
“I’m happy to say that I woke up feeling good and excited about my long-term back health,” – Will Zalatoris
Zalatoris is ranked 84th in the Official World Golf Ranking. Unfortunately for him, he’s failed to get through to the weekend in any of his past four major championships. His hope is to come back recharged in the 2024 season as soon as he is out of that recovery.
“Time to focus on my recovery and get back after it. Thank you to my team, friends, and family for being there for me throughout this journey. Looking forward to seeing everyone in the fall.” – Will Zalatoris
Currently ranked 84th in the Official World Golf Ranking, Zalatoris has missed the cut in his last four major starts. His hope is to return rejuvenated for the next season, once he completes his recovery.
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