Chris Wood: From Open Stardom to Mental Fortitude – A Journey of Resilience
22 July 2025
Chris Wood is a name synonymous with The Open Championship, having burst onto the scene with a remarkable fifth-place finish as an amateur in 2008, followed by a third-place finish as a professional in 2009. These early successes marked him as a rising star in the golfing world, hinting at a career filled with major triumphs.
The Allure of The Open: A British Golfer's Dream
For any British golfer, The Open Championship holds a unique and revered status. As Wood passionately explains, it's "the one that you hold the putt for on the putting green with your friends." The prestige of the Claret Jug and the distinct challenge of links courses set it apart from other majors. He highlights the "purest form of the game" played at The Open, where imagination and ball control are paramount, unlike the "hack and gouge" often seen at events like the US Open.
Reflecting on the unique atmosphere of a home major, Wood emphasises the uplifting power of the crowd. "There's no cheer like an Open cheer," he states, describing how the support "lifts you" and becomes a source of inspiration rather than pressure. This sentiment is particularly poignant given his early career successes at the championship.
Chasing the Claret Jug: Memories of Birkdale and Turnberry
Wood vividly recalls his debut at Royal Birkdale in 2008 as a 20-year-old amateur. Qualifying for his first major and having his father caddy for him created "amazing memories." His immediate goal was to win the Silver Medal for the leading amateur, which he achieved. The following year at Turnberry in 2009, now a professional, he came agonizingly close to a playoff with Stewart Cink and Tom Watson, missing by just one shot. His description of the "flier" shot on the 18th hole, a cruel twist of fate that cost him a potential victory, reveals the acceptable margins of professional golf and the enduring pain of what might have been. Despite the lingering heartache, Wood maintains, "I genuinely have no regrets over anything of that week."
Royal Portrush: A Masterpiece Reimagined
The interview delves into Wood's experience at Royal Portrush, which hosted The Open in 2019 after a 68-year hiatus. He recounts playing the course with Darren Clarke years prior, highlighting the immense challenge it presents, especially in strong winds. Wood praises the course's spectacular nature and the unparalleled support from Northern Irish and Irish fans. The return of The Open to Portrush in a shorter-than-usual timeframe (six years later) is a testament to its success and the overwhelming enthusiasm of the crowds, estimated at 300,000 people during the 2019 tournament.
When asked what type of golfer excels at Portrush, Wood points to players who can master ball control in the wind, especially given the course's doglegs and unforgiving gorse bushes. He anticipates the dry spring and summer in the UK will lead to fast-running fairways, further emphasising the need for precision.
The Mental Game: A Journey of Recovery and Resilience
Perhaps the most compelling part of the interview is Wood's candid discussion about his struggles with mental health and his journey back to form. He reveals that since 2019, he has "really struggled on the course," battling anxiety and a loss of confidence in his swing, particularly with his driver. This led to "complete burnout in 2023" and the challenging experience of losing his tour card.
His return to golf has been a careful, phased process, beginning with playing just nine holes with a six-iron and a putter to avoid past "trauma." He commends the DP World Tour for its proactive approach to player well-being, highlighting the tour doctor as a crucial first point of contact and the introduction of dedicated "quiet zones" in their recovery trucks.
Wood's decision to openly discuss his mental health struggles stems from a desire to normalise the conversation and help others. He emphasises the importance of talking about these issues when ready, sharing how he has received support from others who have read his story. This vulnerability has been a source of strength, making him feel "lighter" and unburdened by hiding his struggles.
Looking Ahead: Dreams and Determination
Despite the challenges, Wood's passion for the game remains undimmed. His recent seventh-place finish at the Turkish Open – achieved after a three-month absence from competitive golf – is a robust validation of his hard work and renewed approach. He acknowledges the difficulty of securing tournament invitations but remains focused on regaining his card, with Open qualifying being a significant hurdle.
The dream of playing in another Ryder Cup at Adare Manor in 2027 still burns brightly. Having experienced the unique intensity of the Ryder Cup on American soil, the prospect of playing at home fuels his determination. "Those sorts of dreams are what still keep you going," he says, embodying the resilient spirit of a true competitor.
To hear more about Chris Wood's incredible journey, his insights on The Open, and his reflections on the mental game, listen to the full interview on This Sporting Planet's YouTube Channel:
