John Daly Jests About Being ‘Dead 11 Times’ During Golf Comeback After Health Scare

John Daly Reflects on Health Battles and Resilient Return to Golf
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Two-time major champion John Daly lightheartedly mocked his own health struggles during a recent PGA Champions Tour interview. Alongside Fred Couples, Daly reviewed a 1992 trading card from his early career, joking, "I’ve only been dead eleven times. I’m like Lazarus—I just keep coming back!"

[Image: Daly and Couples laughing while reviewing the 1992 trading card. Caption: "Daly humorously compared himself to Lazarus while reminiscing with Fred Couples."]

The 58-year-old, known for his colorful personality, looked at his younger self on the card and quipped, "That’s when I could actually play the game." When asked what he’d tell his 1991 PGA Championship-winning self, Daly grinned: "Hey, great life."

Daly’s wit masks a turbulent health journey. In January, he shocked fans by sharing a hospital bed photo post-emergency hand surgery, vowing to return to golf "in no time." True to his word, he competed just two months later at March’s Hoag Classic in California.

[Image: Daly in a hospital bed post-surgery. Caption: "Daly underwent emergency hand surgery in January but returned to the course weeks later."]

Despite admitting his hand was "about 80%" healed, Daly played through pain, crediting surgeons for repairing tangled tendons. "I’ve had 16 surgeries in four years—I’ve lost count," he said. His comeback footage, shared by the PGA Tour, showed him practicing drives with his signature swing.

[Image: Daly swinging a club at the Hoag Classic. Caption: "Daly returned to the PGA Tour at the Hoag Classic, showcasing his resilience."]

Beyond physical injuries, Daly has battled bladder cancer. On a recent podcast, he revealed he’s been in remission but recalled terrifying symptoms: "I was peeing and puking blood." Despite ongoing challenges, he remains determined to compete. "I still wanna play… You never know when the putter gets hot," he said.

Daly’s irreverent spirit endears him to fans. Whether chain-smoking on the course or cracking dark jokes about his near-death experiences, he embodies perseverance. As he put it: "I’m gonna keep grinding… It’s a great life."

[Image: Daly smiling on the golf course. Caption: "Daly’s humor and grit keep him a fan favorite, decades after his major wins."]

Key Points:

• Daly joked about surviving numerous health crises, including 16 surgeries and cancer.
• Made a swift return to golf after hand surgery, showcasing his trademark resilience.
• Openly shared his cancer battle, emphasizing gratitude for remission.
• Remains a beloved figure in golf, blending humor with tenacity.