GOLF:The Open & Chris Wood's Mental Health Struggle! ⛳️

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Get ready for golf's oldest major! ? This week on This Sporting Planet, we're diving into The Open Championship 2025 at the legendary Royal Portrush! ⛳️

We're joined by Former Silver Medal Winner, European Tour winner and Ryder Cup player Chris Wood, who shares frank insights into his mental health struggles over the last few years. Chris opens up about:
- The intense anxiety and pressure of professional golf led to burnout and a personal breakdown.
- His journey to a better place involved overcoming difficult times and rediscovering a renewed passion for the game.
- The vital support systems within the golf tour for player well-being.
- Why speaking out about mental health in sport is crucial for athletes everywhere.

Finally, Chris, alongside Natalie Sawyer (UK), Todd Harris (USA), and Edward Russell (Asia), gives you the ultimate Open preview:

What makes Royal Portrush a "true test" of links golf is its challenging doglegs and unpredictable winds.

Predictions for golf's biggest names like Scottie Scheffler (can he conquer links play?), Rory McIlroy (can he bounce back after the Masters?) and British hopeful Tommy Fleetwood!

An exclusive, emotional story from Chris about his 2009 Open performance and the shot that nearly won him the Claret Jug!

Don't miss this powerful conversation and comprehensive major preview! ?

Chapters for Easy Navigation:

0:00 - Introduction & The Open Preview
1:12 - Royal Portrush: What Makes It Special for The Open
2:45 - The Pressure of The Open for British Players
3:46 - Chris Wood's 2008 (Amateur) & 2009 (Pro) Open Memories
6:12 - The Emotional Impact of Near Misses in Golf
7:49 - Royal Portrush: Course Analysis & Atmosphere
13:33 - The Open Atmosphere & Shane Lowry's 2019 Win
16:15 - What Type of Golfer Excels at Royal Portrush?
17:58 - Predictions for The Open: Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy & Tommy Fleetwood
22:55 - Chris Wood's Mental Health Journey: Starting the Discussion
23:14 - The Personal Struggle & Burnout in Golf
26:13 - Recovery & Rediscovering the Love for Golf
28:15 - The Importance of Normalising Mental Health Discussion
31:15 - Tour Support for Player Well-being
33:15 - Chris's Current Game & Future Goals
36:55 - The Open's Prestige in America
40:00 - Royal Portrush's Challenge & Weather Impact
42:24 - Time-Friendly Major for Global Audiences
46:11 - Outro & Upcoming Episodes