Gary Woodland will take a one‑shot lead over Nicolai Hojgaard into the final round of the Texas Children’s Houston Open after a composed five‑under 65 moved him to 18 under.
The American is chasing his first victory since the 2019 US Open and has become a widely admired figure in golf as he continues recovery from brain surgery in September 2023. Earlier this month he spoke openly about battling post‑traumatic stress disorder, describing the emotional toll and the relief of finally sharing his struggles.
On the course Woodland looks revitalised. A change in iron shafts has helped him regain control as his speed returns, and he has shown strong command of his swing all week. He was particularly sharp down the stretch on Saturday, hitting a two‑iron over water to reach the par‑five 16th in two for a birdie, then nearly driving the green at the short par‑four 17th to set up another.
Hojgaard matched him shot for shot, posting a 63 after a 62 on Friday. The 25‑year‑old Dane has produced 15 birdies and an eagle over the last two rounds and remains firmly in contention as he seeks his first PGA Tour win. Already world No 47, he is virtually assured of a Masters berth unless an unlikely scenario unfolds.
Defending champion Min Woo Lee (67) and Michael Thorbjornsen (66) sit five shots back. For Thorbjornsen, currently No 56, Sunday carries huge stakes: a top‑eight finish could secure his first Masters invitation. Woodland would need a victory to return to Augusta, though that aim sits secondary to the personal journey he has endured.
Woodland said his surgery removed part of a lesion that had triggered overwhelming fear and anxiety; he has described breaking down mid‑round or hiding in bathrooms. Sharing his story made him feel “1,000 pounds lighter.”
At Memorial Park, Hojgaard leads the field in approach play and ranks second in putting after a slight putter tweak. A 2023 Ryder Cup rookie with three DP World Tour wins, he expects a battle to the finish and plans to “stay in the fight” as the final round unfolds.
Watch the final round of the Texas Children’s Houston Open live on Sky Sports Golf from 1.15pm on Sunday, with additional coverage on Sky Sports Main Event from 8.15pm.