PGA Tour star Will Zalatoris has announced a significant setback in his career, revealing he will undergo spinal fusion surgery in late November 2026 and consequently miss the entire 2027 season.
This marks the 30-year-old’s third major back operation since 2023, as he aims to find a permanent solution to his chronic back problems.
Zalatoris shared the somber news on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, during media day for the PGA Tour Fall Series’ Austin Championship. Speaking to reporters, he candidly described his struggles, stating, “I’ve been through four years of hell so it’s good to have something that will hopefully correct it.” He further explained that the decision to proceed with spinal fusion came after three PGA Tour physical therapists advised him that the procedure was ultimately necessary.
A History of Injury Woes
The upcoming surgery is the latest in a series of procedures for Zalatoris, who has been battling back issues for approximately four years. His first major back surgery, a microdiscectomy, occurred in April 2023. This was followed by an artificial disc replacement on May 23, 2025. Despite these interventions, the American continued to experience problems, reinjuring his back at the Valero Texas Open in April 2026, which remains his most recent competitive appearance.
In addition to his persistent back pain, Zalatoris also contended with a torn right hip labrum during the 2026 season, specifically in May 2026, limiting him to just four PGA Tour starts for the year.
One Last Hurrah Before Hiatus
Before going under the knife, Zalatoris intends to compete in the Austin Championship, scheduled to take place from November 12 to 15, 2026, at the Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa’s Fazio Canyons Course. This tournament will serve as his final competitive outing before embarking on a lengthy recovery period. He hopes to make a return to professional golf in 2028, potentially through the PGA Tour’s Challenger Series.
Career at a Crossroads
Once considered one of golf’s brightest young stars, Zalatoris quickly made an impact, earning PGA Tour Rookie of the Year honors in 2021. He achieved his sole PGA Tour victory at the 2022 FedEx St. Jude Championship and boasts an impressive major championship record, including runner-up finishes at the 2021 Masters, 2022 PGA Championship, and 2022 U.S. Open. However, his numerous injuries have significantly hampered his career trajectory, causing his world ranking to fall to World No. 610.
Zalatoris’s decision to undergo spinal fusion surgery underscores the severity of his condition and his commitment to long-term health over immediate competition. The golf world will undoubtedly be wishing him a successful recovery and an eventual healthy return to the sport he has so passionately pursued.