The golf community was struck with devastating news today as Jason Day, the 2015 PGA Championship winner, announced his withdrawal from the upcoming PGA Championship (May 15-18) at Quail Hollow Club due to serious health concerns, leaving fans and players deeply worried. The announcement prompted an emotional response from Tiger Woods, who issued a powerful five-word statement on X: “Stay strong, Jason—we’re here.” The heartfelt message from the golf legend has amplified the outpouring of support for Day, as the sport rallies around one of its most beloved figures during this troubling time.
Jason Day, 37, revealed through his management team that he has been diagnosed with a chronic lung condition, which has worsened in recent weeks, forcing him to step back from competitive play. According to a statement released to Golf Digest, Day has been experiencing severe shortness of breath and fatigue, symptoms that became particularly alarming during a practice round last week. “After consulting with my doctors, I’ve made the difficult decision to withdraw from the PGA Championship to focus on my health,” Day said. “I’m heartbroken to miss this event, but my family and I need to prioritize my recovery right now.” The news comes as a shock, especially after Day’s strong start to the 2025 season, including a T4 finish at The Sentry in January.
Tiger Woods, who has faced his own share of health struggles—including a recent Achilles injury that has sidelined him for the entirety of 2025—was quick to offer support. Woods, 49, posted his five-word message on X shortly after Day’s announcement, a gesture that resonated deeply with fans. “Tiger’s words mean everything right now,” one fan wrote on X. “Jason Day doesn’t deserve this—he’s such a class act.” Another fan shared, “Seeing Tiger support Jason like this has me in tears. Praying for his recovery.” Woods’ message reflects the camaraderie within the golf community, especially as he himself navigates a challenging recovery, with plans to return in 2026.
Day’s withdrawal marks a significant blow to the PGA Championship field, where he was expected to be a contender given his past success at Quail Hollow, including a win in 2016. The Australian golfer, known for his powerful drives and clutch putting, has a history of battling health issues, including vertigo during the 2015 U.S. Open, which he famously played through to win his first major later that year at the PGA Championship. However, this latest diagnosis appears more serious, with reports suggesting Day may need to take an extended break from the sport to undergo treatment and rehabilitation.
Other players have also expressed their concern and support. Rory McIlroy, who is preparing for the Truist Championship next week, told reporters, “Jason’s one of the toughest guys out here, but health comes first. We’re all pulling for him.” Jon Rahm, another top contender for the PGA Championship, added, “It’s heartbreaking to hear this. I hope Jason knows we’re all behind him.” Fans on X have echoed these sentiments, with hashtags like #PrayForJason trending as the golf community unites in support of Day and his family.
As Day steps away to focus on his health, the PGA Championship will proceed without one of its former champions, casting a shadow over the event. Day’s team has not provided a timeline for his return, leaving fans anxious about the future of his career. For now, the golf world holds its breath, hoping that Woods’ words of encouragement—“Stay strong, Jason—we’re here”—will inspire Day to overcome this latest challenge and return to the sport he has graced with so much talent and heart.
