Justin Thomas, two-time major champion, has been cleared by doctors to return to competitive golf. On February 12, Thomas announced his return to golf activity after a microdiscectomy on his back in mid-November.
What happened?
Thomas underwent back surgery to alleviate nagging back pain. He had been targeting the Florida swing as a return date, which starts February 26th with the Cognizant Classic.
Why it matters for Justin Thomas
The Florida swing will be crucial for Thomas to get back into golf shape before competing in the first major of the season, the Masters, at Augusta National on April 9-12. Thomas is currently ranked 12th in the world.
What comes next?
Thomas will work on building his strength and stamina to compete on the PGA Tour. He expressed his excitement to return to golf, saying "It feels great to be swinging freely again and getting some reps in on the course."
Thomas had a bounceback season in 2025, winning the RBC Heritage and having eight top-10 finishes. He has not competed since the Ryder Cup held last September at Bethpage Black.
The Masters tournament will be a key event for Thomas, and his return to competitive golf will be closely watched. Thomas wrote on Instagram, "I’m working hard to build up my strength and stamina to get back into golf shape before competing on [the PGA Tour]."
Thomas's doctor and team have given him the green light to return to golf activity. He will look to make a strong comeback and compete at the highest level.
The PGA Tour's Florida swing will provide Thomas with the opportunity to get back into tournament play. He will face stiff competition, but his experience and skill will make him a contender.
Thomas's return to golf is a significant development in the golf world. Fans and fellow golfers will be eager to see him back in action, competing at the highest level.