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Collin Morikawa Faces Anxiety in His Masters Return
Collin Morikawa’s much-anticipated return to competitive golf at the 2026 Masters was marked by an unexpected wave of anxiety. The two-time major champion, who has achieved remarkable success in his career, admitted that he had never felt so nervous before a round. “I mean, it all started when I woke up,” Morikawa revealed.
The Comeback Story After Injury
Morikawa’s return followed a challenging period. He last played at the Players Championship on March 12, where he sustained a back injury after just a single hole. This caused him to miss a significant portion of the season, making his comeback at Augusta both thrilling and nerve-wracking. “I think it’s a trust factor,” he said, expressing concerns about how his body would react on the course.
A Tough First Round
During his first round at the Masters, Collin Morikawa carded a 2-over 74, battling through the challenges of anxiety and physical discomfort. He struggled with his footing, stating, “It’s a battle. I don’t think I’ve been able to get comfortable out there and [trust] the entire body. It’s not painful, but it’s not easy.” The mental aspect was as challenging as the physical for Morikawa, who described the experience as the “toughest round I’ve ever played.”
Insights from the Round
Morikawa’s round featured four bogeys and two birdies, showcasing his resilience despite the adversity he faced. Reflecting on his performance, he noted, “I’m just fighting. I’m just trying to put one foot in front of the other.” This mindset is crucial for any athlete, especially during high-stakes events like the Masters.
Support and Future Aspirations
Despite the struggles, Morikawa is dedicated to building his confidence back up. “When I teed it up on Tuesday on [the first hole], I honestly didn’t know if I was going to make contact,” he admitted, highlighting the mental barriers he has to overcome. “The expectations are kind of thrown out the window right now,” he said, illustrating a shift in focus as he aims to regain his form in the upcoming rounds.
Morikawa’s track record includes victories at prestigious tournaments, including the PGA Championship in 2020 and the Open Championship in 2021. His recent performance prior to the Masters, including a win at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, had many believing he could contend for another green jacket.
Morikawa’s Goal Going Forward
Understanding that this return is a process, Collin Morikawa is intent on finding his rhythm on the course, allowing both his body and mind to sync. He concluded, “I’m proud of the way things kind of played out,” emphasizing the journey beyond just the score. As Morikawa navigates the Masters, fans and fellow golfers alike will be watching closely to see how he overcomes these hurdles.
Lessons from Morikawa’s Experience
Morikawa’s journey serves as a reminder of the psychological challenges athletes face. The experience of competing under pressure, especially following an injury, is a testament to his strength and determination. How he handles the rest of the tournament will undoubtedly inspire many in the golf community and beyond.
What’s Next for Morikawa?
As the Masters continues, Morikawa looks to remain focused and gradually shake off the rust. With talent and determination on his side, there’s no telling how well he can perform as the tournament progresses.
FAQ about Collin Morikawa’s Masters Performance
What was Morikawa’s score in the first round of the 2026 Masters?
Collin Morikawa posted a score of 2-over 74 in his opening round.
How did Morikawa cope with anxiety during his first round?
Morikawa acknowledged feeling a high level of anxiety and described his performance as a battle to stay focused and trust his abilities.
What injury did Morikawa recover from before the Masters?
Morikawa was recovering from a back injury that he sustained during the Players Championship in March 2026.
What major championships has Morikawa won?
Collin Morikawa has won the PGA Championship and the Open Championship, both under significant pressure.
What are Morikawa’s goals for this Masters?
His main goal is to regain his confidence and performance level while enjoying the competition at Augusta.
