Justin Thomas has been absent from competitive tournaments for quite a while now. The golfer underwent minimally invasive back surgery to relieve back pain caused by a displaced herniated disc in his lower back that was pressing on several nerves. Typically, this type of surgery takes three months to recover from, but Thomas never gave a schedule for return and instead withdrew from several tournaments.
Thomas was unable to participate in the 2025 PNC Championship, Hero World Challenge, and Skin Games due to his rehabilitation. In the 2026 season, he has skipped major tournaments such as the American Express, AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, and Genesis Invitational. After missing numerous events, the golfer recently announced his comeback on X with a video of singer Luke Bryan.
Bryan posted a self-recorded video regarding Justin Thomas, claiming that the golfer has been practicing extensively and that it may be time for him to return and participate in the TGL with his squad. In the video, Luke Bryan said,
“What’s up y’all, Luke here coming at you from Montana and next week on the 23rd I’m going to be down in Florida watching the Atlanta drive in the TGL match and you know Justin Thomas, my boy JT, he’s on he’s on our team and Justin, maybe it’s time been watching you practice, maybe it’s time we get you back baby.”
Justin Thomas reposted this and added a small message on his X page announcing his appearance on the TGL coming Monday. His message read,
“You know what, @lukebryan, I think that’s a great idea. See you Monday👊🏽 @atlantadrivegc @TGL”
Thomas even revealed his back recovery on Instagram, where he also talked about his workout routine to get back into form.
Justin Thomas is working hard to improve his strength and stamina
Before making his first appearance in TGL following surgery, Justin Thomas announced a week ago that he is ready to return to the game. The golfer expressed that while the doctor’s team approved him for all golf activities, he is still a long way from a full recovery. Thomas emphasized that he needed to rebuild his stamina and strength by working hard on the course.
Thomas also released a number of golf swing practice videos on Instagram after being cleared to participate in golf activities. The caption for this Instagram post,
“After some follow-up imaging and meeting with my Dr and team, I’m officially cleared for all golf activity! It feels great to be swinging freely again and getting some reps in on the course. I’m working hard to build up my strength and stamina to get back into golf shape before competing on @pgatour. Can’t wait to get out there with the guys! LFG”
Justin Thomas’ return to the PGA Tour could occur at the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches, which begins on February 26.
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