Will Zalatoris, a professional golfer, marked a significant milestone in his journey back to the Masters tournament at Augusta National. A year after undergoing a microdiscectomy surgery to address back issues, Zalatoris found himself on the practice range alongside golf legend Tiger Woods, who had undergone the same procedure multiple times in the past.
Zalatoris' back problems stemmed from his dynamic swing, which put strain on his slender frame. A pivotal moment came during the British Open when he hit a shot from thick fescue, leading to two herniated discs and excruciating pain. Despite initial attempts at treatment through shots and rest, Zalatoris eventually required surgery after experiencing severe symptoms during warm-up at Augusta National.
The road to recovery was arduous, with months of rehabilitation and no golf swings allowed. During this challenging period, Tiger Woods, who shared the same medical team, provided valuable advice on patience and the process of returning to competitive play.
Zalatoris made a comeback at the Hero World Challenge and gained confidence with strong finishes at Torrey Pines, Riviera, and Bay Hill. His return to form was evident, and he was able to play without the debilitating pain that had plagued him before.
Reflecting on his journey, Zalatoris expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play alongside Woods on the anniversary of his surgery. The experience of sharing the course with a mentor who had overcome similar challenges was both special and inspiring for the young golfer.
