Pro golfer Brendan Valdes, who is a member of the Korn Ferry Tour, is taking a break from competing after being diagnosed with cancer.
Valdes recently revealed the heartbreaking news in an Instagram post.
“Life, like golf, is often unpredictable,” Brendan Valdes said. “A month ago, I was preparing for the start of my first full season on the Korn Ferry Tour when, during a medical exam, a mass was discovered in my chest.
“I was diagnosed with primary mediastinal lymphoma, requiring me to step away from the Korn Ferry Tour while I undergo treatment. I have recently completed my first round of chemotherapy and, while a long journey lies ahead, my treatments should have me back on the golf course and completely healthy this year.”
Valdes, 22, starred at Auburn before turning pro, helping the Tigers win the 2024 national championship.
A three-time All-American, he competed in 11 Korn Ferry Tour and three PGA Tour events in 2025.
Valdes finished tied for third at the Korn Ferry Tour’s Price Cutter Charity Championship last season and finished tied for 20th at the PGA Tour’s 3M Open.
“As I prepare to face this challenge, I want to thank my sponsors, Callaway and Adidas, for being in my corner,” Valdes continued. “I also want to thank the PGA Tour and Korn Ferry Tour staff for their continuous support, as well as clarity around navigating my path back to competitive golf.
“Most importantly, I have endless gratitude for my team of doctors, my family and, most especially, my fiance Rachel. I’m grateful for all the words of encouragement and I look forward to a return to competition.”