Chris Wood kämpft mit seinen Ängsten, um wieder erfolgreich Golf zu spielen

Chris Wood, a 37-year-old golfer from England, once stood out as a rising star in the sport, gaining attention for his impressive performances in major tournaments. However, in recent years, his visibility in professional golf has diminished, primarily due to struggles with anxiety and mental health.

Eight years ago, Wood achieved significant victories that positioned him among the top golfers, leading many to predict a bright future in the sport. Despite this promising trajectory, his career took an unexpected turn, with challenges that often sidetracked his progress. In a recent interview with Golf Monthly, he candidly shared his experiences, expressing the severity of his anxiety. “It’s been horrendous to be honest,” Wood stated. “Yeah, it’s been, well, since 2019 really. I just feel like I’ve been going through hell. To put a score together today is obviously great, but I want to feel like I know my game is there, not just put a score on one day, and I genuinely feel like I’m starting to do that now.”

Wood’s journey reflects a common challenge faced by many athletes—balancing public expectations with personal mental health. The pressure to perform can lead to burnout and mental health issues, a reality that Wood has confronted. Yet, he emphasizes that he has maintained belief in his abilities throughout this tough period. “I’ve been working so hard at home just quietly and with a great team, and yeah, it’s been a long road to be honest, but I never lost belief in myself. You obviously have days where it feels harder than some, but the fire in my belly has always been there. So, you know, I’m relying on invites this year,” he explained.

Throughout his struggles, Wood has expressed gratitude for the support he has received from the professional golf community. He noted, “My anxiety has been horrendous. The Tour has been good, and the medical team have really helped me, so hopefully this is the first little step forward.”

As he continues to work on his mental health and performance, Wood’s story highlights the importance of support systems in sports. Mental health challenges can affect anyone, and acknowledging these issues is crucial for recovery. With ongoing support and a commitment to his personal growth, Chris Wood aims to rebuild his confidence and reclaim his place in professional golf.