Will Zalatoris’s Injury and the Rising Concerns for PGA Tour Players
Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. – Will Zalatoris withdrew from the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches on February 23, 2026, just before his opening round tee time, citing a left ankle injury. This latest setback raises questions about the physical demands placed on professional golfers and the potential for recurring injuries, especially following significant surgeries.
A History of Back Issues
Zalatoris’s withdrawal comes as he attempts to regain momentum after undergoing artificial disc replacement surgery to address two herniated discs. This procedure followed a previous microdiscectomy in April 2023 to treat herniated discs in his back. The initial back procedure sidelined him for eight months and the recent ankle injury adds another layer of complexity to his recovery.
The Demands of the PGA Tour
The PGA Tour schedule is grueling, requiring players to travel extensively and compete at a high level week after week. The physical strain can take a toll, leading to injuries. Zalatoris’s situation highlights the challenges players face in maintaining their physical health while pursuing their careers.
Medical Extensions and FedExCup Points
Zalatoris is currently playing on a major medical extension and needs to accrue 255 FedExCup points to maintain his tour status. He has 14 starts remaining to achieve this goal. Ben Silverman replaced Zalatoris in the field at the Cognizant Classic, teeing off alongside Brooks Koepka and Daniel Berger.
The Road to Recovery
Zalatoris’s withdrawal is a setback, but his team will likely focus on a comprehensive recovery plan. The hope is that he can return to competition soon and continue his journey back to the top of the sport. His situation underscores the importance of proactive injury prevention and effective rehabilitation for professional golfers.
FAQ
- What caused Will Zalatoris to withdraw? He withdrew due to a left ankle injury.
- What surgeries has Will Zalatoris had? He has undergone both a microdiscectomy and artificial disc replacement surgery to address herniated discs in his back.
- How many starts does Zalatoris have left on his medical extension? He has 14 starts remaining.
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