Brendan Valdes, Former Auburn Star, Reveals Cancer Diagnosis
Golfer Brendan Valdes, a former standout player at Auburn University, announced on Wednesday that he has been diagnosed with cancer and will take a break from his first full season on the Korn Ferry Tour to receive treatment. Valdes, who placed second in the PGA Tour University ranking last summer, earning him a full exemption on the Korn Ferry Tour, shared the news through his social media.In his post, Valdes revealed that he was diagnosed with primary mediastinal lymphoma. The 22-year-old has already completed his first round of chemotherapy.Life, like golf, is often unpredictable. 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. … Although there is a long way to go, my treatments should allow me to return to the golf course and be completely healthy this year.
Brendan Valdes
Despite being an aggressive form of lymphoma, the recovery rate is high with the right treatment, and Valdes is optimistic about his return to golf this year.
Originally from Orlando, Florida, Valdes was an All-American at Auburn and played a crucial role in the 2024 NCAA title victory. In his partial year on the Korn Ferry Tour, after finishing college, he tied for third place at the Price Cutter Charity Championship. In addition, he made the cut in the three PGA Tour events he participated in, highlighting his tie for 20th place at the 3M Open in Minnesota.
