Tom Watson

Tom Watson is a retired American professional golfer, born on September 4, 1949, in Kansas City, Missouri. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest golfers of all time. Watson began his professional career in 1971, playing on the PGA Tour and later on the Champions Tour. He has won multiple major championships, including five British Opens and two Masters.

Watson is known for his incredible skill, strategic play, and versatility. He has won numerous individual awards and holds multiple records, including the oldest player to lead after any round of a major championship.

Off the course, Watson is also recognized for his philanthropy and influence, making significant charitable contributions and inspiring millions worldwide.

PGA Tour

• Early Career: Watson turned professional in 1971 and joined the PGA Tour. He claimed his first victory on tour at the 1974 Western Open.

Major Championship Success

• Watson won his first major at the 1975 Open Championship. He would go on to win eight major championships, including five Open Championships and two Masters. His last major victory came at the 1983 Open Championship.

Champions Tour

• Later Career: In 1999, Watson moved to the Champions Tour where he continued to find success, winning six major championships on the senior circuit.

Ryder Cup

• Player: Watson represented the United States in the Ryder Cup team competitions multiple times, contributing to several American victories.
• Captain: Watson served as the non-playing captain of the U.S. team in 1993 and 2014.

• Style: Known for his aggressive and strategic play, Watson is celebrated for his shot-making skills and toughness under pressure.
• Skills: Watson was particularly known for his excellent short game and his competitiveness.

• Family: Watson has two children. He was married to Linda Rubin from 1972 until their divorce in 1997, and has been married to Hilary Watson since 1999.
• Philanthropy: Watson is involved in various charitable activities and has donated significant sums to various causes, including the Bruce Edwards Foundation for ALS Research.

• Tom Watson is celebrated not only for his extraordinary talent and numerous records but also for his strategic mind, competitiveness, and longevity in professional golf. His impact on the sport and his status as an icon extend beyond the course, inspiring millions of fans around the world.

Most Wins in The Open Championship:

• Five wins (1975, 1977, 1980, 1982, 1983)

Most Wins in the Masters:

• Two wins (1977, 1981)

Most Wins on the PGA Tour:

• 39 wins

Most Wins on the Champions Tour:

• 14 wins

Books

• Dodson, J. (2004) Tom Watson: A Life in Golf. New York: Gotham Books.
• Watson, T. (2009) The Timeless Swing. New York: Atria Books.

Websites

• PGA Tour: Information about Tom Watson’s career and achievements. Available at: https://www.pgatour.com
• World Golf Hall of Fame: Details about Watson’s career and legacy. Available at: https://www.worldgolfhalloffame.org

Articles

• Golf Digest: Tom Watson: Career in numbers. Available at: https://www.golfdigest.com/story/tom-watson
• The New York Times: Tom Watson’s career highlights and records. Available at: https://www.nytimes.com/topic/person/tom-watson

Interviews and Documentaries

• Tom Watson: Lessons of a Lifetime (2010): This instructional video series provides a detailed look at Watson’s golf techniques and career, featuring interviews and demonstrations by Watson himself.
• Golf Channel Interviews: Various interviews and features on Tom Watson, covering different aspects of his career. Available at: https://www.golfchannel.com