Story perspectives

Will Zalatoris Undergoes Back Surgery After Injury Struggles

2/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

Will Zalatoris, a professional golfer, underwent artificial disc replacement surgery to treat two herniated discs after the PGA Championship.
The surgery occurred two years after his April 2023 microdiscectomy, which addressed herniated discs at L4-L5 and L5-S1.
Zalatoris's first back procedure followed his withdrawal from the 2023 Masters, keeping him out of competition for eight months.
The events together illustrate a back-injury timeline from 2023 to the 2025 surgery.

History

Historical Context

The first artificial disc replacement surgery in the U.S. occurred in 2000, revolutionizing spinal surgery and offering new hope for patients with chronic back pain. By 2020, over 100,000 such surgeries were performed annually. This trend reflects a broader acceptance of advanced medical interventions in sports, as athletes like Will Zalatoris seek innovative treatments to enhance recovery and prolong their careers.

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Story summary

Will Zalatoris, a professional golfer, underwent artificial disc replacement surgery to treat two herniated discs after the PGA Championship.
The surgery occurred two years after his April 2023 microdiscectomy, which addressed herniated discs at L4-L5 and L5-S1.
Zalatoris's first back procedure followed his withdrawal from the 2023 Masters, keeping him out of competition for eight months.
The events together illustrate a back-injury timeline from 2023 to the 2025 surgery.

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