Justin Thomas provides update on PGA Tour plans | Golf News

Justin Thomas confessed he “never felt anything” in his back following surgical procedure for a herniated disk that will keep him out of motion at the start of the 2026 PGA Tour season.

The two-time major champion has turn out to be one of the PGA Tour’s most recognizable figures. While he not too long ago shared an encouraging message with 20 new card holders after the Korn Ferry Tour wrapped up, he will not be current to welcome rookies during the early portion of the season.

Thomas bounced back from back surgical procedure on Friday after experiencing a herniated disk. The setback will stop Thomas from competing at the season’s outset, with the golfer taking his time before returning to full fitness.

“It’s a bummer, but I don’t want to have this stuff bother me the rest of my life,” Thomas said from New York, where he had the surgical procedure on his decrease back on Thursday. He added: “It was really weird.

“I never felt something in my back. I felt fatigued all yr. I attempted so many different issues. Some stuff made it really feel better, but nothing that made it go away. I had a good break after the Ryder Cup, and when I got here back, the symptoms bought manner worse.”

Medical examinations revealed a herniated disk in his lower spine, a discovery that surprised Thomas given he hadn’t experienced any discomfort there. He believed there was a persistent problem with his right hip that he initially detected while preparing for the Masters.

In the end, the diagnosis provides clarity regarding some of the challenges Thomas encountered on the course. “I never had to suppose about setup as a lot as I’ve this yr. My back bought very arched, and the very left facet was dominant.

“The more weight I put over there, the less stress on my right side. So that gave me a little bit of clarity. I’ve never had to be conscious standing over a damn golf ball.”

The timing could not be worse for Thomas, who had rediscovered his best type in 2025. In April, he claimed victory at the RBC Heritage, ending a three-year title drought and climbing back to No. 8 in the world rankings while incomes his fourth consecutive Ryder Cup spot with Team USA.

Medical employees told Thomas the operation was profitable, and he’ll start gentle rehabilitation in roughly three weeks. While he may return to the course within two months, Thomas is decided to take a measured method to his recovery to keep away from any problems.

Thomas had been set to compete in the Skins Game in two weeks, adopted by the Hero World Challenge and the PNC Championship with his father. The 32 yr outdated was also due to tee off next week at The American Express in California‘s desert.

Though he hasn’t specified an precise return date, Thomas might be absent for the opening stretch of the 2026 season. This marks the second injury-related absence of the American’s profession; Thomas beforehand sat out the 2019 PGA Championship due to a wrist downside.