Former PGA Tour Rookie Of The Year Aaron Wise Returns To Competition After 20-Month Mental Health Break
Aaron Wise, former PGA Tour Rookie of the Year, is returning to professional golf after a significant mental health break that began at The Masters in 2023. The South African-born American will make his comeback at the 118 Visa Argentina Open on the Korn Ferry Tour.
Wise's career has seen notable success, including winning the 2018 AT&T Byron Nelson and finishing 13th in the 2021-22 FedEx Cup standings with four top-10 results. However, his form declined in the 2022-23 season, leading to his withdrawal from The Masters to focus on mental health.
Golfer swings club on course
In a candid Instagram message, Wise acknowledged that golf's mental demands had become challenging, necessitating time away from competition despite the significance of playing at Augusta National.
Man holds esports trophy
After a brief return in May 2023, where he played three events including the PGA Championship and US Open, Wise took an extended break. His only appearance since then was at the Puerto Rico Open, where he missed the cut.
Golfer with caddie on putting green
Wise, who retains 26 starts on his PGA Tour major medical extension, will begin his latest comeback at the Jockey Club in Buenos Aires, teeing off alongside Cole Hammer and Pontus Nyholm. This strategic return through the Korn Ferry Tour suggests a measured approach to resuming his professional career.