Photo by Mike Mulholland/Getty Images

Justin Thomas and Collin Morikawa react after Gary Woodland wins the Houston Open

Originally posted on HITC | By Peter Lynch | Last updated Mar 30, 2026 6:00 AM ET

Gary Woodland has captured the hearts of the golfing world after his emotional win at the Houston Open.

Woodland, who had brain surgery 30 months ago and has been dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder, won by five shots.

The American finished on 21-under at Memorial Park Golf Course in Texas, comfortably ahead of Nicolai Hojgaard in second.

He is now a five-time champion on the PGA Tour, having just clinched his first victory since the 2019 US Open.

Following the victory, Woodland has received heartfelt messages from his fellow PGA Tour players Justin Thomas and Collin Morikawa.

Justin Thomas and Collin Morikawa inspired by Gary Woodland

Thomas posted on his Instagram story: “Speechless. Incredible and inspiring stuff from [Gary Woodland].”

And Morikawa wrote on his Instagram story: ‘Don’t give up, just keep fighting.’ Inspiring stuff, congratulations [Gary Woodland].”

The 41-year-old is clearly a much-loved figure on the PGA Tour, and one of the most popular winners in recent memory.

It continues his roller-coaster 2026 season so far, with Woodland winning in his first top 10 finish, having missed four out of eight cuts.

But he was in command in the closing stages of the Houston Open, having entered the final round with just a one-shot lead.

Photo by Mike Mulholland/Getty Images

Nelly Korda praises “incredible” Gary Woodland after Houston Open win

The delight for Woodland’s Houston Open title has not been limited to the men’s game, with LPGA star Nelly Korda also weighing in.

She wrote on her Instagram story: “Absolutely incredible [Gary Woodland]!”

The man himself was hugely grateful for the support he received as he clinched the title, with Woodland saying afterwards: “We play an individual sport out here, but I wasn’t alone today.

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

The American is a real inspiration to the golfing world and far beyond, with his latest efforts transcending the sport.

Within golf, however, the victory has resulted in a major reward, with Woodland now eligible for The Masters.

The first major championship of the season returns to the calendar in two weeks, hosted as ever by Augusta National.

Woodland claimed his only major win to date at the 2019 US Open, when he edged out Brooks Koepka by three shots at Pebble Beach.

His Houston Open title may not be as major, but it represents a hugely significant moment for golf, for sports, for humankind, and of course for the player himself.

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This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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