Tom Watson Bio
Thomas Sturges Watson (born September 4, 1949) is an American professional golfer. In the 1970s and 1980s, Watson was one of the leading golfers in the world, winning eight major championships and heading the PGA Tour money list five times. He was the number one player in the world according to McCormack’s World Golf Rankings from 1978 until 1982; in both 1983 and 1984, he was ranked second behind Seve Ballesteros. Watson is renowned for his competitive spirit and longevity in the sport, having continued to contend in major championships well into his late 50s. His accolades include notable victories against other golfing legends, establishing him as one of the finest players in the history of the game.
Early Life and Background
Tom Watson was born in Kansas City, Missouri. He was introduced to the game of golf by his father, Ray. His early coach was Stan Thirsk at the Kansas City Country Club. Watson first gained local renown while on his high school team at The Pembroke-Country Day School in Kansas City. He won four Missouri State Amateur championships in 1967, 1968, 1970, and 1971. Watson attended Stanford University, where he played on the golf and table tennis teams, and graduated with a degree in psychology in 1971.
Path to Golf
Watson joined the PGA Tour in 1971. He hired Bruce Edwards to be his caddie for the first time at the 1973 St. Louis tournament held at Norwood Hills Country Club, and the two connected, with Edwards caddying for Watson at most events after that for a period of many years. Watson contended in a major championship for the first time at the U.S. Open in 1974 at Winged Foot, but faded badly in the final round after having the 54-hole lead. Following this disappointment, Watson was approached in the locker room by legendary retired player Byron Nelson, who offered encouragement and assistance. Nelson and Watson developed a close and productive teacher-student relationship. Only two weeks after the Winged Foot collapse, Watson won his first Tour title at the Western Open near Chicago, coming from six shots back in the final round. With Nelson’s guidance, Watson’s game advanced quickly, leading to his first major championship win at the 1975 Open Championship.
Tom Watson Career
Early Career (1971-1979)
Watson’s early career saw him achieving significant milestones. He won his first major championship, the 1975 Open Championship, on his debut in the event in Britain. Watson holed a 20-foot putt for a birdie on the 72nd hole to tie Jack Newton and won in an 18-hole playoff. In 1977, he won his first Masters title after a duel with Jack Nicklaus. Watson’s 1977 Open Championship victory at Turnberry is considered one of the finest tournaments played in the second half of the 20th century. He continued to excel, winning five PGA Tour events in 1978 and finishing tied for second at the Masters.
Breakthrough (1980-1984)
Watson had an outstanding year in 1980, winning his third Open Championship title and leading the money list for the fourth consecutive year. In 1981, he won his second Masters title and had two additional Tour victories. The U.S. Open was the major that Watson most wanted to win, and he achieved this in 1982 at Pebble Beach after an engaging duel with Jack Nicklaus. Watson’s chip shot on the 17th hole was a highlight, leading to a miraculous birdie and setting the stage for his victory. He became only the third golfer since World War II to win the U.S. Open and Open Championship in the same year. Watson’s fifth Open Championship win came in 1983, solidifying his status as one of the greatest links players of all time.
Notable Works and Milestones
Watson’s signature works include his eight major championships, which rank him sixth on the all-time list. His accolades include being a member of the World Golf Hall of Fame since 1988, and he has won the PGA Tour money list five times and the PGA Player of the Year six times.
Tom Watson Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Tom Watson has received numerous nominations for prestigious awards, reflecting his impact and legacy in the sport of golf.
Tom Watson Awards Won
Watson has won several notable awards, including the World Golf Hall of Fame induction in 1988, the PGA Tour money list winner for multiple years, and the PGA Player of the Year on six occasions.
Tom Watson Family
Tom Watson was married to Linda Rubin from 1972 until their divorce in 1997. He then married Hilary Watson, with whom he had two children, until her death in 2019. In 2022, he married Leslie Anne Wade, but they separated later that year.
Personal Life
Watson has been involved in various charitable efforts, particularly in raising awareness for Lou Gehrig’s disease, following his caddie Bruce Edwards’ diagnosis. He has also been active in politics, initially voting for George McGovern before becoming a Republican. Watson has designed golf courses through his Tom Watson Design company in Johnson County, Kansas.