Ludvig Aberg shot an opening round 63 (-9) on the North Course at the Farmers Insurance Open, his lowest score since returning from knee surgery in November. The Swede’s accurate drives set up many birdie opportunities at Torrey Pines.

Aberg’s knee issues began in early 2024, affecting his ability to read putts and causing quad muscle weakness. After wearing a knee brace at the PGA Championship, he underwent arthroscopic surgery on September 5, 2024, in New York City to repair a torn medial meniscus in his left knee.

The rehabilitation process started with four weeks away from golf, followed by pitch shots in early October and complete golf activities by mid-October. Aberg returned to competition as the defending champion at the RSM Classic in November 2024, showing steady improvement since.

This return to form carries particular significance in the current competitive landscape. “I haven’t had any issues since the surgery,” Aberg said after his round at Torrey Pines. “Really looking forward to coming back and playing a lot of tournaments back to back.” His statement about an aggressive tournament schedule comes at a time when several top players are forced to step back from competition because of medical reasons.

World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler has not started his 2025 season following a hand injury sustained while preparing ravioli Christmas dinner, requiring surgery to remove glass fragments. World No. 2 Xander Schauffele pulled out of the Farmers Insurance Open because of an aggravated rib injury, he has been enduring since the end of 2024. The contrast between Aberg’s trajectory and his competitors’ setbacks is evident in his growth.

His world ranking has improved from 1964th to 6th since early 2023, including eight top-10 finishes in 2024 and three runner-up positions. These achievements, notably accomplished while managing knee issues, point to even greater potential now that he’s fully recovered. Aberg’s return and consistent performance have drawn attention from some of golf’s most respected figures, proving that he truly is a rising star.

Tiger Woods, and Rory McIlroy admire Ludvig Aberg

Tiger Woods, watching Aberg’s precise ball striking during the TGL competition, offered a telling assessment: “It’s so simple. Just straight up, straight down. He doesn’t do anything wrong in his golf swing. There’s nothing that’s going to stop him from being one of the world’s best.” 

McIlroy‘s endorsement carries equal significance, particularly given their Ryder Cup connection. “Going into the Ryder Cup in ’23, people thought that Ludvig was a questionable pick. He’d only been a pro for a few months. And he was absolutely incredible,” McIlroy reflected before adding with strategic insight, “I keep saying to everyone I’m glad he’s European, I’m glad he’s on my team.” Well, even at Bethpage, the two are expected to represent Europe, and McIlroy is just glad they are both on the same side.

As the 2025 season unfolds, Aberg’s combination of full fitness and ambitious scheduling positions him uniquely among his peers. His successful recovery and strong early-season form serve notice that golf’s next generational talent is ready to challenge for the sport’s highest honors.