Gary Woodland withdraws from next event after scooping host of perks from $1.8m Houston Open win

Mar 31, 2026 - 17:45

Gary Woodland has withdrawn from the Valero Texas Open just days after clinching his first PGA Tour title in almost seven years.

Woodland reigned supreme at the Houston Open on Sunday with a final score of -21 and five strokes clear of closest challenger Nicolai Hojgaard.

Gary Woodland holds up the Houston Open trophy — Gary Woodland secured his first victory since his retrun to golf

And that scooped him a cool $1.8million in prize money.

Personal health battle

His victory came just two years after undergoing brain surgery to remove a lesion that had been the root cause of his battle with anxiety.

The American recently revealed that he suffers with PTSD amid an ongoing battle with his mental health.

Sunday’s victory has banked his spot in The Masters where he will tee up for the first time since 2024 after missing last year’s event.

To ensure he is in the best possible shape to compete at Augusta, Woodland has pulled out of this week’s Valero Texas Open.

The tournament is the final opportunity for players to qualify for The Masters, with the winner earning their spot at the Major if they haven’t already secured qualification.

Woodland has been replaced by Jackson Suber for the tournament in San Antonio while Pierceson Coody, Nicolai Hojgaard and Matti Schmid have also pulled out.

Daniel Berger – who has already booked his spot at The Masters – was another withdrawal as were Ryan Gerard, Isaiah Salinda and Aaron Wise who withdrew over the weekend.

Notable names vying for Masters place this week include Billy Horschel, Rickie Fowler and Tony Finau.

Following his victory at the Valero Texas Open, an emotional Woodland gave a heartfelt interview urging anyone struggling in life, to never give up.

Gary Woodland celebrates winning in Houston — Woodland lapped up the plaudits after securing victory

Gary Woodland embraces his partner after winning the Houston Open — Woodland paid tribute to his wife who has been by his side throughout this ordeal

“We play an individual sport out here, but I wasn’t alone today,” Woodland said.

“Anyone struggling with something, I hope they see me and don’t give up. Just keep fighting.”

He also revealed his relief at going public with his PTSD diagnosis which he says has been tough on him but also on his wife Gabby Granado who shared in his triumph on the green.

“It’s just another day. Today was a good day,” Woodland said.

“I’ve got a big fight ahead of me, and I’m going to keep going. But I’m proud of myself right now.

“This has been hard on me. It’s been a lot harder on her.”