Look, I've been following John Daly's career since he burst onto the scene with that wild mullet and even wilder swing. The man's a legend. But this latest health update? It's honestly breaking my heart a little.

Our favorite golf bad boy—now 59 years old (God, where does the time go?)—just announced he's skipping next week's PGA Championship while recovering from his SIXTEENTH surgery. His sixteenth! I can barely handle going to the dentist twice a year.

The Man is Literally Held Together with Duct Tape and Prayers

Back in January, Daly landed in the hospital after some scary emergency surgery on his left hand. I remember seeing those hospital pics on Instagram and thinking, "Poor John." The guy just can't catch a break. Instead of competing at the PGA Championship (where he has a lifetime exemption, by teh way), he's opted to play in the Regions Tradition—the first major on the Champions Tour for the 50+ crowd.

When talking to AP News, Daly dropped this absolute gut-punch of a quote: "I'm like Lazarus—I keep coming back from the dead. Waking up is a win for me."

That hit me hard. Really hard.

Cancer, Surgeries, and Still Swinging

Since his bladder cancer diagnosis in 2020, Daly promised to quit smoking and clean up his lifestyle. I remember watching an interview where he talked about it—his eyes had that look of someone who'd glimpsed their own mortality. Terrifying stuff.

His comeback since March has been... well, let's just say it hasn't been pretty. His 2025 results read like my investment portfolio during a recession: tied 56th, tied 75th, tied 50th, and 77th. At the Insperity Invitational, he finished 27-over par. My buddy who caddies occasionally texted me after that round: "Painful to watch. Like seeing Superman struggle to lift a grocery bag."

Why Schedule These Events at the Same Time?!

Daly raised a damn good question about the scheduling conflict between the PGA Championship and Regions Tradition. "Why are they scheduling Regions the same week as the PGA Championship where I can see Brooks [Koepka] and all the guys?" he asked.

Then came the brutal financial reality: "I can go [to the PGA Championship] and miss the cut and get $6,000, but I'm playing Birmingham. I love Regions."

This is what people don't get about professional golf at this level. These aren't just passion decisions—they're financial calculations when your body is breaking down and your prime earning years are behind you.

The Missing Legends

Daly won't be the only familiar face missing at Quail Hollow. Tiger Woods is also out while recovering from surgery on his left achilles tendon. I spent $3K on tickets back in 2019 to watch Tiger play in person, and I'd do it again in a heartbeat... if his body would just cooperate.

I ran into an old caddie at a local tournament last week who summed it up perfectly: "Golf is the cruelest mistress—she gives you just enough good days to make you forget all the bad ones."

For Daly, I just hope there are more good days ahead. A lot more.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of golf equipment will an older person need?

A retired person who wants to learn golf will need a set of clubs that includes the following: a driver; a couple woods; irons; a wedge; and a Putter. It's advisable to choose clubs designed for beginners or seniors, which often feature more flexible shafts for easier use. It is also important to have comfortable golf shoes, gloves that improve grip and clothing suitable for different weather conditions. As they advance, players may want to invest in specialized gear that fits their own style of play.

What are the health benefits of playing golf for retirees?

Golf is a great low-impact exercise that improves flexibility and cardiovascular health. Seniors can maintain strength and endurance by walking around the course. Swinging the club also helps with balance and flexibility. In addition, golf offers mental health benefits through its social nature.

Can golfing be a social outlet for retired people?

Yes, golf can significantly enhance retirees' social life. Golf is a social sport, which allows people to form new relationships and make new friends. Many retirees join golf leagues, participate in tournaments, or simply enjoy regular rounds with a group of peers, leading to increased social interaction, camaraderie, and the development of a supportive community that shares a common interest. This aspect of the game can be a great way to reduce loneliness, and enhance your life.

What, if any, changes in golf etiquette for seniors?

Golf etiquette applies to all age categories, emphasizing respect towards other players, for the course, as well as the game. Seniors, like all golfers, are expected to keep up with the pace of play, repair divots, rake bunkers, and uphold the spirit of sportsmanship. If mobility issues impact pace, it's courteous to allow faster groups to play through. Understanding and adhering to etiquette ensures a pleasant experience for everyone on the course.

How can retirees start playing golf if it's their first time?

Beginner golf lessons can be taken by retired golfers at their local driving range or golf course. Beginners are able to learn at their pace, starting with the basics such as gripping, stances, and swings. Many courses provide senior-specific clinics or classes, which cater to the learning and physical abilities of older adults. Renting equipment initially can help one discover personal preferences before committing to purchasing a set of clubs.

Statistics

• The physical activity associated with golf, such as swinging and walking, has been linked to a 40% reduction in fall risk among elderly populations.
• Approximately 25% of golfers in the United States are over the age of 65, highlighting the popularity of the sport among retirees.
• Golf has seen a 15% increase in participation among retirees over the past decade, illustrating the sport's growing appeal to this age group.
• Research suggests that social interaction in golf contributes to over 20% reduction in all-cause mortality for seniors.
• Studies have found that playing golf can add an average of 5 years to one’s life expectancy, with seniors as a key demographic reaping these benefits.

External Links

golfadvisor.com

• Golf Advisor

golfchannel.com

• Golf Channel

pga.com

• PGA of America

arthritis.org

• Arthritis Foundation

aarp.org

• AARP

How To

How to Incorporate Walking into Your Golf Routine for Retirees

You can improve your physical health by adding walking to your golf game. You can start by walking short courses or individual golf holes to gradually increase your endurance. Consider investing in a comfortable pair golf shoes. Also, consider getting a cart to help carry your clubs. Tracking your steps with a pedometer or fitness tracker can also provide motivation and a sense of accomplishment. Walking on the course offers both cardiovascular benefits as well as a chance to experience its natural surroundings.