Sir Nick Faldo has shared news that has sent ripples through the golfing world, revealing he recently underwent open heart surgery in the United States.
The six time major champion confirmed the procedure was planned and preventative, addressing an enlarged aorta that required specialist care.
At 68, Faldo‘s focus has shifted from competitive golf to health, legacy, and continued involvement in the sport he helped define for generations.
Faldo traveled to Cleveland, Ohio, where he placed his trust in one of the most respected medical institutions in the world.
The procedure was performed at the Cleveland Clinic by renowned cardiac surgeon Dr Lars Svensson, a name frequently associated with complex cardiovascular operations involving elite athletes and public figures.
According to information released through Faldo‘s official channels, the surgery went smoothly and without complication.
“After two weeks in Cleveland, Nick Faldo, and his wife, Lindsay, are on their way home following a successful, scheduled preventative open-heart surgery to repair his enlarged aorta, performed by world-renowned cardiac surgeon Dr Lars Svensson at the Cleveland Clinic,” an official statement read.
The update brought relief to fans across the sport, particularly given Faldo‘s continued public presence through course design, mentorship, and major championship appearances.
His recovery timeline appears encouraging, with plans already forming for his return to golf related commitments.
“Nick is now looking ahead to returning to his golf course design work and to the Masters Week in Augusta, GA, where he will be celebrating ‘Six back in ’96’,” the statement concluded.
Faldo‘s connection to Augusta National is inseparable from his legacy. Three of his six major championships came at the Masters, including the iconic 1996 victory where he overturned a six shot deficit to claim the green jacket.
That moment remains one of the most dramatic comebacks in major championship history and cemented his reputation as one of golf’s greatest tacticians.
“Home never felt so good,” Faldo posted on Twitter.
A Lasting Legacy Beyond the Fairways
Faldo‘s influence on the sport stretches far beyond his playing days. Over a career spanning more than two decades, he captured 43 professional victories worldwide, dominated both sides of the Atlantic, and redefined preparation standards at the elite level.
His Open Championship triumphs in 1987, 1990, and 1992 showcased his adaptability in difficult conditions, while his Masters success highlighted his precision and mental resilience.
Since stepping away from competition, Faldo has remained deeply involved in golf. His work as a course designer has produced layouts across Europe, North America, and Asia, many praised for blending strategic challenge with playability.
He also became a familiar voice to television audiences, spending years as a lead analyst for Sky Sports and later CBS, where his insight and candor earned widespread respect before his departure from broadcasting in 2022.
Medical experts frequently emphasize the importance of early detection and preventative treatment for aortic conditions, particularly in older patients with physically demanding pasts.
Faldo‘s openness about his surgery may encourage others to prioritize cardiovascular screening, especially former athletes transitioning into retirement.
As he continues his recovery, Faldo‘s expected presence at the Masters in April carries symbolic weight.
It represents not only a return to a beloved tournament, but also a celebration of longevity, resilience, and life beyond competition.
For one of Britain‘s greatest sporting icons, this chapter is about health, reflection, and staying connected to the game that shaped his life.
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