David Toms Bio
David Wayne Toms (born January 4, 1967) is an American professional golfer who currently plays on the PGA Tour Champions. From 1992 to 2017, Toms was a member of the PGA Tour, where he won 13 events, including one major, the 2001 PGA Championship. He was in the top 10 of the Official World Golf Ranking for 175 weeks between 2001 and 2006, and ranked as high as fifth in 2002 and 2003.
Early Life and Background
David Toms was born in Monroe, Louisiana. He is the son of Thomas Edward “Buster” Toms. Toms demonstrated an early affinity for sports, winning the 15-17 Boys’ event at the 1984 Junior World Golf Championships. He also played little league baseball alongside future Major League Baseball players Albert Belle and Ben McDonald. After graduating from Airline High School in Bossier City, Louisiana, he attended Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, where he was a member of the golf team.
Path to Golf
Toms began his professional career in 1989 after earning his PGA Tour card through the qualifying school in 1991. His early years on the PGA Tour were challenging, with limited success. However, he found greater success on the Nike Tour, winning two tournaments in 1995, which allowed him to regain his PGA Tour card for the 1996 season. His persistence paid off when he won his first PGA Tour event at the Quad City Classic in 1997, marking the beginning of a successful career.
David Toms Career
Early Career (1989–1998)
Toms’ early career on the PGA Tour was marked by struggles, but he managed to secure his first win at the Quad City Classic in 1997. He followed this with a strong performance at the Masters Tournament in 1998, finishing tied for sixth. His determination and skill began to shine as he secured multiple top finishes in subsequent years.
Breakthrough (2001)
The year 2001 was a standout for Toms, as he won three tournaments, including his first major championship at the PGA Championship. His winning score of 265 in the PGA Championship was the lowest absolute 72-hole score ever recorded in a major championship at that time. This victory established him as a prominent figure in professional golf.
Notable Works and Milestones
David Toms has achieved significant milestones throughout his career, including winning 13 PGA Tour events and earning the Payne Stewart Award in 2011. His resilience and dedication to the sport have made him a respected player on the PGA Tour Champions.
David Toms Award Nominations
Throughout his career, David Toms has received various nominations, including the prestigious Payne Stewart Award, recognizing his contributions to the game of golf and his philanthropic efforts.
David Toms Awards Won
David Toms has won several awards during his career, including the Payne Stewart Award in 2011, which honors golfers who exemplify the character and spirit of the late Payne Stewart.
David Toms Family
David Toms is married to Sonya Toms, and they reside in Shreveport, Louisiana. The couple has two children, Carter and Anna. Toms has been known to support his son’s athletic endeavors, as Carter signed to play for Louisiana State University in 2015.
Personal Life
In addition to his golfing career, David Toms is involved in philanthropic efforts through the David Toms Foundation, which he established in 2003 to support underprivileged children. He has also faced health challenges, including heart surgery in 2005 to correct a rapid heartbeat. Toms continues to be an influential figure in both golf and his community.