Peter Jacobsen Bio
Peter Erling Jacobsen (born March 4, 1954) is an American professional golfer and commentator on Golf Channel and NBC. He has played on the PGA Tour and the Champions Tour, winning seven events on the PGA Tour and two events on the Champions Tour, both of which are major championships. Jacobsen is known for his engaging personality and contributions to the sport, both on and off the course.
Early Life and Background
Peter Jacobsen was born and raised in Portland, Oregon. He graduated from Lincoln High School in Portland and later attended the University of Oregon, where he played college golf. Jacobsen turned professional in 1976 after winning the Oregon Open as an amateur, marking the beginning of his golfing career.
Path to Golf
Jacobsen qualified for the PGA Tour in his first attempt, finishing in 19th place at the December 1976 qualifying tournament in Brownsville, Texas. He made steady progress during his early years on the tour, capturing his first title in 1980 at the Buick-Goodwrench Open. By 1984, he had won twice on the tour and broke into the top-10 on the money list for the first time. His performance during the 1990s, including two wins in 1995, led to his selection for two Ryder Cups in 1985 and 1995.
Peter Jacobsen Career
Early Career (1976-1995)
Jacobsen’s first notable work came in 1980 when he won the Buick-Goodwrench Open. Over the years, he accumulated a total of seven victories on the PGA Tour, with his last win occurring at the 2003 Greater Hartford Open at the age of 49. This achievement made him one of the oldest players to win on the PGA Tour, and he was subsequently awarded the Tour’s Comeback Player of the Year in 2003.
Breakthrough (1996-Present)
After turning fifty, Jacobsen transitioned to the Champions Tour, where he continued to excel. In 2004, he won the U.S. Senior Open, one of senior golf’s major championships, shortly after undergoing hip surgery. The following year, he added a second senior major title at the Senior Players Championship, further solidifying his status in the sport.
Notable Works and Milestones
Jacobsen’s signature work includes his role as a commentator on Golf Channel and NBC, where he has brought his expertise and humor to golf broadcasting. He has received several accolades, including the PGA Tour Comeback Player of the Year in 2003 and the Champions Tour Comeback Player of the Year in 2005, as well as the Old Tom Morris Award in 2012 and the Payne Stewart Award in 2013.
Peter Jacobsen Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Peter Jacobsen has received numerous nominations for various awards, reflecting his impact and contributions to the sport of golf.
Peter Jacobsen Awards Won
Peter Jacobsen has won several prestigious awards, including the PGA Tour Comeback Player of the Year in 2003, the Champions Tour Comeback Player of the Year in 2005, the Old Tom Morris Award in 2012, and the Payne Stewart Award in 2013. These accolades highlight his resilience and dedication to the sport.
Peter Jacobsen Family
Peter Jacobsen is married to Jan, and the couple has three children: Amy, Kristen, and Mick. They have built a supportive family environment that has been a cornerstone of Jacobsen’s life and career.
Personal Life
Jacobsen is known for his laid-back and humorous personality, often entertaining fans with impressions of other players. He appeared as himself alongside Kevin Costner in the 1996 movie Tin Cup, where he portrayed the winner of the fictional U.S. Open. Additionally, Jacobsen is a self-taught guitarist and was a founding member of the band Jake Trout & The Flounders, showcasing his diverse talents beyond golf.
