Inside Will Zalatoris' return to health and contention on the PGA Tour

For Will Zalatoris, the journey back to the top of the PGA Tour has been filled with challenges and triumphs. Two weeks ago, as he made his way up to the Riviera Country Club clubhouse, emotions ran high. Each step symbolized not just a moment of pride, but also a reminder of the hardships he had endured.

"I've got a lot of silver in my house, so getting another second place doesn't really sit that well," Zalatoris confessed after finishing three shots behind Hideki Matsuyama. "Coming back from what I had to go through physically, we're headed in the right direction."

Zalatoris had just showcased his best golf since his return from a microdiscectomy on two herniated discs in his back, an injury that sidelined him for most of 2023. Despite his stellar performance, second place seemed to be a recurring theme. Since turning professional in 2018, Zalatoris boasts an impressive record with six top-10 finishes at major championships, including runner-up positions at the 2021 Masters, the 2022 U.S. Open, and the 2022 PGA Championship.

As he concluded his round with a par on the 18th hole at the Genesis Invitational, Zalatoris shared an emotional moment with his trainer Landan Webster, who had tears streaming down his face. Zalatoris' wife, Caitlyn, couldn't contain her joy as she realized that his latest performance would likely secure him a spot in the Players Championship field.

"It's crazy to be this emotional about a second place," Webster remarked to ESPN. "But he's gone through so much."

Reflecting on his performance, Zalatoris expressed pride in his resilience. "I'm really proud of how I played," he said. "2023 was a bad movie, but so far things are progressing nicely. ... This is what I've missed."

The road to recovery from back surgery was arduous, requiring Zalatoris to make significant changes to his swing and equipment. Armed with a broomstick putter that towers nearly to his sternum, Zalatoris has embraced a new approach to his game. While his swing may have evolved, his unwavering determination remains a constant. Despite setbacks, Zalatoris has reclaimed his position among the sport's elite, demonstrating the same fierce attitude that propelled him to seventh in the world rankings in 2022.

As Zalatoris continues his journey on the PGA Tour, his comeback serves as a testament to his resilience and determination. With each swing, he defies the odds, proving that setbacks are merely opportunities for growth. With his sights set on future victories, Zalatoris is poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of golf.