Justin Thomas Opens Up on Surgery Recovery, Nerve Pain & Getting Ready for Augusta
Justin Thomas speaks to the media at the 2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard as he makes his season debut after surgery (Nov. 13). In a candid, wide-ranging press conference, JT breaks down his recovery timeline, the mental “waves” of being away from competition, and what he’s aiming for heading into Augusta.
In this full press conference, Justin Thomas discusses:
• His surgery date (November 13) and the step-by-step rehab plan
• Why nerve-related recovery feels unpredictable — and the “scary” moments when it “wakes up”
• How hard it is to not overdo it: “We’re not pressing this.”
• What a successful week at Bay Hill looks like after six months without competition
• Confidence that the issue won’t linger — plus a funny line: “Other stuff’s starting to hurt again.”
• Missing golf — and the emotional side of recovery, including a moment with his daughter
• His long-term target: feeling “normal” by Augusta (physically and competitively)
• Shot-making talk: how he bridges distance gaps with feel and setup tweaks
• Life during downtime, book recommendations (Greenlights), and classic JT humor to close it out
⛳ Event: Arnold Palmer Invitational 2026
📍 Location: Bay Hill Club & Lodge (Orlando, Florida)
🎙️ Player: Justin Thomas
📌 Format: Full press conference / media availability
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Great to see JT back in action.
Well done Chuckster!! 😂😂😂
Those two are hilarious
JT rules
Nerves takes extremely long to heal. I’ve had two lumbar spine surgeries due to nerve compression and I’m in my 30s. Each one took around 1 year to improve though I still won’t ever be 100%. I’ve had flare ups from doing things healthy people have no problem with that have taken 8 months for the pain to return to baseline. It’s no joke. Just like Justin the pain has always been more sciatic related than in the lower back. I can still work out and play golf but it’s a permanent lifestyle change avoiding activities that flare it up. Keeping your body in shape however is the most important thing imo but you cannot overdo it or you will face setbacks. Body is no longer the same.
Why do I only hear the reporters mic. Anyone else? CC works though.
It's my left sciatica primarily rather than the right as yours. No surgery yet but age is limiter now (79). Hope you get back to the game you want. You are a great wedge player and with the flat stick! With time and patience, and the Lord's help, you will be able to do it I believe and hope for you! 😊