Gary Woodland returned to golf after a brain lesion. Following "one of the hardest years" of his life, the U.S. Open champion had an encouraging start to his season.

HONOLULU — Gary Woodland had a brief vacation with wife Gabby on the Big Island before coming over to Oahu for the Sony Open. Never was a 45-minute flight more memorable. They were in the second row on the Hawaiian Airlines flight. The final passengers to board were in the first row — former President Barrack Obama, his wife and two daughters.

After having a brain tumor removed, Gary Woodland came back too soon last year but through yoga and meditation, he's learning to calm his mind.

How to watch the PGA Tour's 2025 Sony Open in Hawaii, including full Sony Open TV coverage and streaming info for the week.

Gary Woodland finished his second round at the Sony Open in Hawaii 6-under par and he talks with Todd Lewis about how good he's feeling to start 2025.

How to watch the 2025 Sony Open on Saturday, including full Saturday TV coverage and streaming info for Round 3 in Hawaii.

Patrick Fishburn found some early momentum and Denny McCarthy overcame a sluggish start Friday, both winding up in the same spot -- a share of the lead in the Sony Open going into what figures to be a wide-open weekend at Waialae.

Spaun, who last won at the 2022 Valero Texas Open, was born in Los Angeles and played his college golf at San Diego State University, so his thoughts have been with those from his hometown as the area continues to suffer through wildfires.

PGA Tour winner Grayson Murray tragically took his own life last year after dealing with his bout with depression and alcoholism. It was a shocking development felt by the entire golf world and beyond.

Golf Channel will carry live coverage Thursday and Friday from 7-10:30 p.m. EST. On Saturday and Sunday, NBC/Peacock will begin live coverage from 4-6 p.m. with Golf Channel finishing each day up from 6-8 p.m. PGA Tour Live streaming coverage will occur on ESPN+ from 12 noon to 10:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday and from 1-8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

HONOLULU (AP) — Gary Woodland had a brief vacation ... He played the back nine in 30 at the Sony Open and tied for 10th. How he made it to Hawaii is still hard for him to believe.