Gary Woodland is an accomplished American professional golfer who has made significant strides on the PGA Tour since turning professional in 2007. After a successful college career at the University of Kansas, where he won four tournaments, Woodland began his professional journey on the Nationwide Tour. His determination paid off when he earned his PGA Tour card for the 2009 season, despite facing challenges in his rookie year due to a shoulder injury.
Woodland’s breakthrough came in 2011 when he secured his first PGA Tour title at the Transitions Championship. This victory not only marked a turning point in his career but also earned him a spot in the prestigious Masters Tournament. Over the years, he continued to showcase his talent, achieving notable finishes, including a tie for sixth at the 2018 PGA Championship and reaching the final of the 2015 WGC-Cadillac Match Play.
The pinnacle of Woodland’s career arrived in 2019 when he won the U.S. Open at Pebble Beach, marking his first major championship. His impressive performance, finishing three shots ahead of the runner-up, solidified his status as one of the top golfers in the world, propelling him to 12th in the Official World Golf Ranking. This victory was not only a personal triumph but also a moment of inspiration, as he celebrated with Amy Bockerstette, a young golfer with Down syndrome, who had previously played alongside him in a viral moment.
Despite facing health challenges, including a recent brain surgery, Woodland remains a prominent figure in professional golf. With a career earnings total exceeding $34 million and multiple endorsements, he continues to inspire fans and aspiring golfers alike with his resilience and dedication to the sport.