### Will Zalatoris Faces Another Setback: Undergoes Second Back Surgery - Will Zalatoris, a prominent figure in professional golf, has announced that he underwent back surgery on May 23, 2025, to address two herniated discs. This marks his second surgery in just over two years, following a microdiscectomy in April 2023. Zalatoris will miss the remainder of the 2025 PGA Tour season, including the final two major championships, as he focuses on recovery. His announcement came via social media, where he expressed optimism about his long-term health despite the challenges he faces in his career due to recurring injuries [https://sports.yahoo.com/article/zalatoris-undergoes-back-surgery-again-142405935.html][https://www.espn.com/golf/story/_/id/45333124/will-zalatoris-undergoes-surgery-herniated-disks]. ### Breakdown of Zalatoris' Injury and Recovery Journey 1. **Initial Injury and First Surgery**: - Zalatoris initially injured his back shortly after winning his first PGA Tour event in August 2022. He underwent a microdiscectomy in April 2023, which sidelined him for eight months [https://www.yardbarker.com/golf/articles/will_zalatoris_undergoes_second_back_surgery_targeting_fall_return/s1_16931_42246752]. 2. **Recent Developments**: - After returning to competitive play in December 2023, Zalatoris showed promise with several strong finishes early in the 2024 season. However, he began experiencing discomfort again in spring 2025, leading to the recent surgery [https://www.yardbarker.com/golf/articles/will_zalatoris_makes_devastating_injury_announcement/s1_13132_42245319]. 3. **Future Outlook**: - Following the latest surgery, Zalatoris is targeting a return to competitive golf in the fall of 2025. He remains hopeful about his recovery and is focused on regaining his form [https://www.yardbarker.com/golf/articles/will_zalatoris_expected_return_date_set_after_successful_back_surgery/s1_17210_42247144]. ### Key Data Points on Zalatoris' Career and Injuries - **Career Highlights**: - 2021 PGA Tour Rookie of the Year. - Runner-up finishes at the 2021 Masters, 2022 PGA Championship, and 2022 U.S. Open [https://www.yardbarker.com/golf/articles/will_zalatoris_undergoes_second_back_surgery_targeting_fall_return/s1_16931_42246752]. - **Injury Timeline**: - August 2022: Initial back injury post-victory. - April 2023: First surgery (microdiscectomy). - May 2025: Second surgery for re-herniated discs. ### Conclusion: A Challenging Road Ahead for Zalatoris - **Zalatoris' current situation underscores the challenges faced by professional athletes dealing with injuries**. His journey reflects resilience, as he aims to return to the sport he loves after significant setbacks. 1. **Injury History**: Zalatoris has faced multiple injuries that have impacted his career trajectory. 2. **Surgical Interventions**: The need for two surgeries within two years highlights the severity of his condition. 3. **Future Aspirations**: Despite the challenges, Zalatoris remains optimistic about his recovery and plans to return to competitive golf in the fall of 2025. Zalatoris' story serves as a reminder of the physical demands of professional sports and the importance of health and recovery in an athlete's career [https://www.dallasnews.com/sports/golf/2025/05/26/will-zalatoris-back-surgery-injury-pga].