The golfing world has been left reeling after PGA Tour star Jason Day revealed the devastating toll his ongoing health issues have taken, admitting in an emotional statement, “I’m so sorry, but I can’t do it anymore.” The 37-year-old Australian, a former world number one and 2015 PGA Championship winner, spoke candidly about his deteriorating condition, describing it as “very bad” during a press conference ahead of the 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club. Day’s wife, Ellie Harvey, also broke her silence, offering a heartfelt perspective on the challenges the couple has faced as they navigate this deeply personal crisis. The news has sparked an outpouring of support from fans, fellow players, and the broader golf community, raising concerns about Day’s future in professional golf.

Day, known for his resilience and powerful ball-striking, has battled health setbacks throughout his career, including chronic back pain, vertigo, and recurring injuries. However, his latest announcement suggests a more severe and potentially career-threatening condition. While Day did not disclose specific medical details, sources close to the golfer indicate that his symptoms have worsened significantly in recent months, impacting his ability to compete at the elite level. “It’s very bad,” Day said, his voice heavy with emotion. “I’ve been pushing through for so long, but my body’s telling me it’s time to stop. I’m heartbroken, but I have to listen.” The statement, delivered on June 8, 2025, came as a shock to fans who had hoped to see Day contend at Oakmont, a course where his precision and experience could have shone.

Ellie Harvey, Day’s wife of over a decade, spoke publicly for the first time about her husband’s struggles, emphasizing the emotional and physical toll on their family. “Jason’s been fighting this for years, but it’s never been this hard,” Harvey shared in an interview with Golf Channel. “Seeing him in pain, not just physically but mentally, is heartbreaking. He loves golf, and it’s killing him to think about stepping away.” Harvey highlighted the couple’s efforts to explore treatment options, including consultations with specialists and alternative therapies, but hinted that the prognosis remains uncertain. “We’re taking it day by day, but we’re in this together,” she added, underscoring the strength of their partnership amidst adversity.

Day’s health struggles are not new, but their escalation marks a critical juncture in his career. The 13-time PGA Tour winner has faced numerous setbacks since his meteoric rise in 2015, when he won five tournaments, including his sole major at Whistling Straits. Chronic back issues forced him to withdraw from events like the 2016 WGC-Bridgestone Invitational and limited his schedule in subsequent years. Vertigo, first diagnosed in 2015, further complicated his ability to maintain consistency, while a series of soft-tissue injuries in 2023 and 2024 hampered his comeback attempts. Despite these challenges, Day’s victory at the 2023 AT&T Byron Nelson and a top-10 finish at the 2024 Masters demonstrated his enduring talent, making his recent announcement all the more devastating.

The golf community has rallied around Day, with players like Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Jordan Spieth expressing solidarity. “Jason’s one of the toughest guys out here,” Scheffler said. “To hear him talk like this, it’s gut-wrenching. We’re all pulling for him.” McIlroy, who has faced his own pressures, praised Day’s openness, noting, “It takes courage to be honest about something so personal. He’s got a lot of people in his corner.” Fans on social media, particularly on X, have echoed these sentiments, with trending hashtags like #PrayForJason and #StayStrongDay reflecting widespread support. Some have speculated about the nature of his condition, but without official confirmation, discussions remain inconclusive.

Day’s announcement casts uncertainty over his participation in the U.S. Open, set for June 12-15, 2025, at Oakmont. While he is technically qualified through his top-60 OWGR ranking as of May 2025, sources suggest he may withdraw to focus on his health. The PGA Tour has issued a statement expressing support, stating, “Jason Day is a valued member of our community, and we are committed to supporting him and his family during this difficult time.” The organization has also offered flexibility with medical exemptions, potentially allowing Day to retain his tour status if he requires extended time away.

As the golf world awaits further updates, Day’s situation serves as a poignant reminder of the physical and mental demands of professional sports. His legacy, defined by moments like his record-setting 20-under-par performance at the 2015 PGA Championship, remains secure, but his future on the course hangs in the balance. For now, Day and Harvey are leaning on their family, including their five children, and the support of the golfing community as they navigate this challenging chapter. The hope among fans and peers alike is that Day, known for his grit and determination, will find a path to recovery, whether or not it leads back to the fairways