Michelle Wie is not fully healed from surgery she underwent six months ago to repair several problems in her right hand. After attempting several comeback starts with little success and more pain, Wie has decided to put a pause on her career so her hand can properly heal.
Taking to social media, Wie explained her decision on Twitter and Instagram without offering a firm timetable for a return.
“Had an encouraging visit with my doctor, however, we both think it’s in my best interest to take some time away to allow my body to heal properly and get stronger,” Wie wrote. “Health is my top priority right now and hopefully I can get back to being pain free real soon. Thank you everyone for staying patient with me. I appreciate y’all.”
The 2014 US Women's Open champion, now 29, has been battling wrist and tendon problems in her right hand for years. She chose to have surgery last October to clean it all up, with hopes of returning early in the 2019 season. Wie has made four starts this season, starting with the Honda LPGA Thailand and withdrawing after 14 holes at her title defense in the HSBC Women's World Championship in Singapore in February, citing "nerve entrapment." She missed the cut at the ANA Inspiration, then she missed the cut in her home state of Hawaii last week at the Lotte Championship, where she screamed in pain after hitting a drive in Round 1.
Wie, who has battled hand, neck, wrist and hip problems in the past, has been advised to take at least a month off without even touching a club. When she returns, she may well have to rework her swing in an effort to minimize potential future injury. While it's certainly difficult to watch someone suffer like this, though Wie is also experiencing great joy, too. Michelle Wie got engaged in March to boyfriend Jonnie West, who is the VP of player relations for the NBA's Golden State Warriors.
