When Casey Martin underwent a mid‑thigh amputation in October 2021, the former PGA Tour pro expected relief from chronic pain that had plagued him since childhood. Instead, the 53‑year‑old now endures new aches, describing his post‑surgery life as “a bit of a war.” He still coaches Oregon’s men’s golf, but hasn’t played a full round in almost two years.

Martin’s fight began in 1997 when the PGA Tour denied him a golf cart, prompting a lawsuit that reached the U.S. Supreme Court. A 2001 ruling found the tour violated the ADA, forcing cart use on the Nike Tour and eventually the PGA Tour. The decision sparked testimony from legends Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer and set a precedent for disability accommodation in sport.

Now, Martin stands on a prosthetic leg, able to chip and hit a 7‑iron 150 yards, yet he cannot negotiate uneven lies or bunker slopes. His limited on‑course ability underscores the physical toll of his condition and forces Oregon to rely on younger talent for competitive results. Martin’s story remains a stark reminder of the personal cost behind landmark legal victories.