Pain-free Will Zalatoris sets target date for PGA Tour return

Will Zalatoris says he is pain-free for the first time in two years as he targets his return to competitive action.

Zalatoris has missed out on a shot at redemption in this year’s PGA Championship after falling agonisingly short to Justin Thomas in a play-off at last year’s Southern Hills event.

He announced after his withdrawal from the Masters last month that he is out for the season to concentrate on rehabilitation following a back surgery procedure.

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It was a devastating blow for the world No.9, an emerging star who looked destined to make the US Ryder Cup team for this autumn’s showdown in Rome.

Zalatoris no doubt would have relished the challenge of a brutally difficult Oak Hill this week, but could he at least provided some positive news for his growing allegiance of fans during TV coverage of the tournament.

On Friday’s ESPN alternate broadcast, Zalatoris said: “No headaches, no leg pain. This is the best I’ve felt—I feel great.”

The 26-year-old is targeting a September return to the PGA Tour and is optimistic despite missing out on all four major championships this year.

“After careful consideration and seeking multiple medical opinions, I underwent a successful microdiscectomy,” Zalatoris confirmed in April.

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“As much as I hate not being able to play the rest of the season, I am happy that I am already seeing the benefits of the procedure. Playing and living in pain is not fun.

“I look forward to making a full recovery and seeing everyone in the fall. Thank you to Dr. Michael Duffy, Dr. Tom Kelton, and their respective teams for getting me fixed.

“And, of course, thank you to everyone for the support and the messages. I look forward to getting back to 100 percent.”

Ben Parsons joined bunkered as a Content Producer in 2023 and is the man to come to for all of the latest news, across both the professional and amateur games. Formerly of The Mirror and Press Association, he is a member at Halifax Golf Club and is a long-suffering fan of both Manchester United and the Wales rugby team.