Billy Horschel bagged an impressive win on the PGA Tour on Sunday, beating former world number one Jason Day in a playoff to win the AT&T Byron Nelson.
It was the American’s first win since he beat Rory McIlroy to The Tour Championship in September 2014. He would go on to claim the FedEx Cup later that year.
His latest victory evidently meant a lot to Horschel, as it would for any golfer, but he had more reason to celebrate than most.
On Monday, his wife Brittany released a statement in which she disclosed the difficulties of their lives over the last year.
It reads:
“Billy was asked yesterday after his win at the AT&T Byron Nelson exactly what was his “own challenges” that triggered an emotional reaction to his victory. Well, that is a question my husband respectfully has left me to answer how way I would like, if at all. However, to not answer would not only be unfair to him, but to my own integrity.
“I write this nervously, sceptically, but also proudly because I have embraced the woman I have become over the past year. One year ago, I began a journey to a healthy me; mentally and physically.
“I will keep this simple, “I am an alcoholic.” I say that now without shame. Admitting that to myself, family and friends has saved my life and my marriage. However, the last year has not come without its extreme struggles as Billy alluded to yesterday.
“I spent the end of May through July last year down in a treatment center in South Florida receiving the life tools that help me win against my disease ever day.
“During that time, Billy has to take on the 100% responsibility of taking care of our then 1 ½ year old daughter, moving us into our new home, competing on tour, and God only knows what else and what all went through that man’s head during that time.
“He silently battled through, with support from family and close friends, a very sad, scary and trying time. This weekend marked one year sober for me, but also marked a very hard fought year for Billy.
“He deserves to soak in the glory of his win yesterday, throw his feet up and just let out a long, deep breath. Billy, you are my rock and the living testament of unconditional love. I am so blessed that God chose you to be my husband and father of our children.
“For those who know Billy, will understand when I say, thank you for just being YOU. That will always be more than enough.”
i would like to share why yesterday's win had some extra emotions for my hubby, @BillyHo_Golf xo pic.twitter.com/2yDyhm8kRR
— brittany horschel (@britthorschel) May 22, 2017
The victory was no doubt an important one that brought great joy to the family, none more so than the couple’s daughter Skylar Lillian who was delighted that her father won on Sunday.
https://twitter.com/britt_horschel/status/866429244951461888
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