Golf icon Colin Montgomerie, affectionately known as Monty, has opened up about facing serious health challenges that may affect his future in the sport he loves. This revelation came following his participation in the Staysure PGA Seniors Championship at Trump International Golf Links, where it was clear that his health issues were impacting his performance.
According to Golf Week USA Today, Montgomerie stated:
“I haven’t been well for the last six months. I have been poorly and have taken more time off than ever before.”
“I might take the rest of the year off. I need to; I’m not well.”
When asked for more details, he simply referred to his issues as “internal.”
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Despite these setbacks, Montgomerie performed decently at the Championship, scoring a 1-under 71 in the first round and a 73 in the second, placing him in the top 15. He reflected on his game, saying:
“The Colin Montgomerie of old would have shot a 66. But Colin Montgomerie at 61 shoots 71. I maximize every score right now, and it’s frustrating.”
Retirement may be on the horizon for Montgomerie, who hinted that stepping away from professional golf could be close at hand.
Beyond the fairways, Montgomerie joked about life after golf, mentioning new hobbies like gardening. “There’s plenty of grass to tend to. I’ll be like Bob MacIntyre’s dad, but me putting the clubs away in August? That’s unheard of!”
With an illustrious career, Montgomerie is a celebrated Scottish golfer known for his remarkable eight European Tour Order of Merit titles and 31 European Tour victories—more than any other British golfer. He’s a three-time Volvo PGA Championship winner and a five-time runner-up in major championships, having reached the world ranking’s second spot at his peak. Inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2013, he’s also claimed three senior major championships since turning 50.