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Top 9 Most Famous Spanish Golf Players Of All Time

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At the top of all the world rankings, some of those excellent golfers are made in Spain. Here’s the ultimate list of the best Spanish players in this fascinating sport!

Even if you’re not a fan, I’m sure you’ll be surprised to learn about the talent and recognition these Spanish people have achieved over time.

In this article, you’ll find everything about them, their lives, and even some of the newest Golf players in today’s world that are building their legacy while leaving their mark on international championships.

I hope you have your green jacket washed and ready to discover what these famous Spaniards have achieved.

1. Severiano Ballesteros

Severiano Ballesteros was born on April 9 1957. He was born in a small fisherman’s village in Santander. This area is very popular for being one of the greatest golfing traditions in Europe. Due to his natural talent, determination, and hard work, Ballesteros has been one of the most important figures when talking about this sport . 

He started using a 3 iron his brother gave him when he was a kid. After practicing a lot on the beach, he got some great shots. When he was 10 years old, he participated in his first caddy tournament. He improved quickly in just 2 years and even won the event at 12 years old! 

At 16 years he turned professional. His career achievements include 93 tournament victories , including five Majors: 

• The Open Championship (in 1979, 1984, and 1988).
• Masters Tournament (in 1980 and 1983). 
• Five World Match-Plays.
• Two World Cups.
• Played Nine Ryder Cups Matches. 

As people describe him, he was able to play with courage and imagination when he was facing a complicated situation. In 1978 his triumphs in the USA, Kenya, and Japan made him a true international icon.

At the age of 20, he had already won on five continents. In 1979 in the Ryder Cup, Seve and Antonio Garrido were the first continental players allowed into the team. They represented all of Europe. He has won two green jackets, one in 1980 and the other in 1983 —If you’re not a fan, you might be wondering what this means in Golf.

The green jacket represents the champion of the Augusta Masters. It is one of the most charismatic prizes for its value in the world of sport.

His efforts have been recognized, and he has won many different medals, such as:

• Príncipe de Asturias de los Deportes in 1989.
• Olympic Order of Merit in 1998. 
• Spanish Athlete of the Century in 2000.

He retired in 2007, and in 2008 he was diagnosed with a brain tumor. On May 7, 2011, he passed away. 

2. Miguel Angel Jimenez

Miguel Ángel was born on January 5, 1964, in Málaga. When he was 15 years old, he decided to drop out of school, and he started working in a garage, collecting golf balls, and caddying at a local golf course to earn his own money.

Whenever he had the chance, Miguel would hit balls. At this moment, he realized that he loved the sport. The Spanish Open came to the Golf Club in 1979, and Miguel was able to watch his idols compete, including Ballesteros (who we’ve talked about before).

And he was inspired by watching Ballesteros practice Golf, so in 1982 Miguel became a Professional Golfer at 18 years.

After a few years of competing from one place to another around Spain, Miguel aimed his sights on the European Tour. He secured his full playing rights in 1988 at the Qualifying School.

Nowadays, he has achieved 29 Tour victories, 21 being on the European Tour and 8 on the PGA TOUR Champions.

He has the record for being the Oldest Winner on the European Tour. Especially after winning the national Spanish Open and having the most significant number of European Tour tournaments ever played by a Professional.

Miguel achieved his dream of winning The Senior Open in 2018 on the Old Course at St Andrews, the Home of Golf. Another highlight of his golf career was competing in four European Ryder Cup Teams.

Miguel is very proud of everything he has achieved thanks to this sport and believes he owes everything to it. That’s why he created a golf club that allows children to play Golf from an early age to anyone interested.

3. Ángel Miguel Gutiérrez 

Ángel Miguel was born in Madrid on December 27, 1929. He was born after the war, and at that time, he had to work to help his family (like every other kid). As a teenager, he was already working in the world of Golf, soaking up its techniques and traditions. 

He saw this sport as admirable and began practicing it daily and competing in small golf competitions. During this time, golfer players were hardly known. Together with his brother, they promoted Golf in Spain when it was tough to promote it. 

He began to excel in amateur tournaments until he became a professional in the year 1953. He became one of the most prestigious Spanish professional golfers during the fifties and sixties.

Ángel Miguel won:

• Three Spanish Open (1955, 1961, and 1964)
• Six Spanish Professional Championships (1953, 1954, 1955, 1957, 1963, and 1965)
• The Mexico Open 1959
• The Chile Open 1962 
• The Argentina Open 1962, and 6 others around the world. 

His biggest achievement was winning the Canada Cup (now called the World Golf Cup) in 1958. In this same edition, he was classified 2nd in the couple’s modality with his brother Sebastián Miguel.

He has the record of Spanish Professional Champion and was awarded the Medal of Sporting Merit and the Medal of Merit in Golf. He represented Spain on nine occasions in the World Cup (as mentioned before), 

Once he retired, he developed the Rio Real Golf project, which became one of the most attractive in the world. It is an incredible golf resort in Marbella in Costa del Sol, where thousands of people go yearly. There he continued working as a golf coach for a few years. In 2009 he died in Marbella due to lung problems.

If you want more information about the best Golf Resorts in Spain, this post has it all:

The 15 Best Golf Resorts in Spain To Play And Stay

4. José María Olazabal 

Jose Maria Olazabal was born in the Basque Country on February 5, 1966. He was the son of the family of caretakers of the Real Club de Golf de San Sebastián and was like this how he found his passion for playing Golf. In 1985 he won his first professional victory, the European Masters , and began a brilliant career. 

In his career, we can remark on his triumph in the Augusta Masters (in 1994 and 1999), the World Series of the American circuit (1991), and fifteen titles in the European circuit. In addition, he participated in the European triumphs of the Ryder Cup in 1987 and 1991. 

In only nine years, he exceeded three million pounds sterling in earnings. During these years, everything was going great until 1955, when he had a foot injury that kept him inactive for two years.  

Just like Ballesteros, Olazabal won two green jackets when he won in Master Augusta, one in 1994 and the other one in 1999. When everyone thought his career was over, he was able to be back, and in 1999 he won the Masters at Augusta for the second time in his life. 

He won the French Open in 2001, the oldest tournament in continental Europe. That same year he won his second victory in Hong Kong. 

Nowadays, Olazabal is one of the best golfers in Spain, together with Ballesteros . At 56 years old, he is now enjoying playing Golf and practicing for the significant tournament he still plays, the Master tournament. 

5. Sergio Garcia 

Sergio García Fernández was born in a town in Castellón on January 9, 1980. He is best known as “El Niño” (“The Kid”) for starting his golfing career very young and being very talented.

He achieved more than 65 victories in the amateur field. Sergio began as a professional golfer in 1999 , being the youngest player with the fewest tournaments to qualify for the Ryder. He was also the youngest player to compete in a PGA USA and finish second. The youngest to earn American and European Tour cards simultaneously.

In 1999, his first year as a professional, he achieved two victories, the Irish Open and the Linde German Masters. He was second in the Byron Classic, the Loch Lomond, and the USPGA.

In 2001, won the Mastercard Colonial, the Buick Classic of the American circuit, and the Lancome Trophy, all in the same year! He triumphed in The Players Championship (May 2008), and (as some say) his most outstanding achievement was his contribution to the European team’s triumph in the Ryder Cup in 2002, 2004, 2006, and 2012. 

It was in 2015 that he achieved second place in The Players Championship and fourth place in the Los Angeles Open. In 2017 they gave him the green jacket as the champion of the Augusta Masters.

He became the first Spanish in the 21st century to bring the 5th green jacket to Spain after the green jackets that Ballesteros and Olazabal had achieved.

In 2018, he was recognized as “Revelation Sportsman of the Year” at the Laureus Awards. And at 43 years old, he continued with his career, and on June 8, 2022, he resigned from the American Tour to participate in the LIV Tour.

6. Elvira Larrazábal 

Elvira Larrazabal was born in Vizcaya, Bilbao the 28th of October, 1933. She was the first female Golf professional in Spain and the first to obtain a teaching license from the Spanish Federation in 1958. She started at the Real Sociedad de Golf de Neguri, where her father, Angelín, was a teacher. But things for her were not as easy as they were for men. 

At that time, only a very few women could practice and compete in Golf, as this sport was seen more for males. Another factor that didn’t help was that Golf was seen as an elite sport, especially the Neguri club where Larrazabal’s dad worked. 

This club was in a spectacular location close to the coastal area of the Basque oligarchy; it was only frequented by members of the club belonging to the Bilbao elite. Larrazabal began her golf career in childhood and was the only woman in the Neguri club.

After much work and progress, she won all the championships between 1952 and 1955 and different European championships. She is considered an absolute pioneer in Spanish sports.

After all these years, she began working at the golf course, where she worked as a teacher for 7 years until 1965. In 1965 she decided to stop her golf career so she could take care of her sick daughter.

7. Carlota Ciganda 

Carlota Ciganda was born June 1 of 1990 in Pamplona. She has been able to be one of the few female Spanish professional golfer who plays on the Ladies European Tour and the LPGA Tour. She started playing Golf when she was 5 years old, encouraged by her father. 

They gave her a scholarship to the University of Arizona, where she studied for a Business degree. While studying for her degree, she was also an amateur player.

For example, she won the British Ladies Amateur tournament in 2007. She also won the European Ladies Amateur Championship twice, in 2004 and 2008. 

She was the national champion in different junior categories from 2000 to 2008 (except 2005). She became second in the Espirito Santo Trophy team in 2008 (before being a member).

She was the best Spanish participant in several professional tournaments, such as:

• The 2007 Open De España Femenino (eighth position)
• The 2008 Tenerife Ladies Open, where she finished third, only three strokes behind the winner, Rebecca Hudson.

Ciganda decided to turn professional in May 2011. And, in 2012, the year of her debut on the LET, she won the Order of Merit and was named Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year. 

8. Jon Rahm Rodriguez

Jon Rahm Rodriguez was born in Bilbao on November 10, 1994. When he was a kid, he practiced various sports such as shoveling, soccer, and kung fu.

One day in 1977, his father was invited to the Ryder Cup in Valderrama. He was so impressed by the European team’s victory that he became a member of the Larrabea club. Rahm decided to be part of the club just like his father. At this moment, he realized his passion for the sport. His first contact with the world of Golf was in 2004 at the Martiartu Sports Club . Later, the whole family joined the Larrabea Golf Club.

He began to develop his golf career. His competitive eagerness and hard work allowed him to achieve more important sporting successes. And, The Royal Spanish Golf Federation included him in its national teams . 

Just like Carlota Ciganda, he got a scholarship in Arizona. He remained the number one golfer in the World Amateur Ranking for 50 weeks — something very few people have achieved—.

In 2014 he was an individual winner of the Eisenhower Trophy. He was voted best amateur golfer of the season two years in a row. This was the first time anyone had achieved this.

A few years later, he started working as a professional and won 33 victories, 11 on the PGA Tour, 16 on the European Tour, and another six on the Asian Tour.

He had won once at Augusta Masters and six times at the Ryder Cup with the European team. Nowadays, he is still fighting to achieve a green jacket.

9. Jorge Campillo 

Jorge Campillo was born June 1, 1986, in Cáceres. His passion for Golf started when he was a kid when he attended a Spanish national training center. At 18 years old, he was elected to play college golf at Indiana University in the United States, where his passion for Golf increased. 

He became one of the most successful players in that university’s history, winning nine intercollegiate titles and being named to the Golfweek First Team All-American squad. As an amateur player, he won the Boilermaker Invitational in 2006, the Sofitel Biarritz Cup in 2007, and the Adidas Hoosier Invitational in 2009, among many other wins.

Later, he graduated from college, decided to play professional Golf in 2009, and began playing on invitations to the European and Challenge Tours. He is now a Spanish professional golfer. Campillo also won on the tour of 2019 the Trophée Hassan II by 2 strokes, which was his first European Tour win after 229 European Tour starts. Later in 2020, he won the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters. 

As people describe him, Jorge strives hard to achieve his objectives, and he is achieving them little by little. He is not one of the elite golfers. Still, he definitely has the potential, especially if he continues to play and work the way he’s been doing.

As you can see, Spanish people are very talented and have stood out internationally in many other sports, not only Golf. Rumor has it that we are one of the bests in football (which is true). I suggest you visit our articles to understand what’s the deal with this sport in Spain. Is it really “a thing”? Find out here:

Soccer in Spain What is the Copa del Rey? What is La Liga?

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15 Most Famous Golfers From Spain (2024)

Spain isn’t just famous for its beautiful beaches and delicious paella – it’s also home to some of the world’s greatest golfers. The country’s lush golf courses have produced legendary players who have significantly impacted the sport.

So if you’ve ever wondered why a country known for its flamenco and football also excels in golf, this article is for you. I’ll take you into the fascinating world of the best, most famous golfers from Spain, where there’s much more to discover than just the perfect swing.

Table of Contents

1. Seve Ballesteros

Seve Ballesteros was truly a legend in the world of golf. Born in Pedreña, Spain, in 1957, Seve’s journey in golf began in an unconventional manner.

He grew up near a golf course, and as a child, he often practiced with a 3-iron on the beaches near his home. This unconventional training honed his imaginative and unique style of play, which later became his trademark.

Seve turned professional at the age of 16 and won his first European Tour event just two years later. His major breakthrough came in 1979 when he won The Open Championship, a feat he repeated in 1984 and 1988.

Ballesteros was known for his extraordinary ability to get himself out of tricky situations on the course, often making incredible shots from what seemed like impossible positions.

His success wasn’t limited to individual tournaments though, as Seve played a crucial role in rejuvenating the Ryder Cup.

He helped transform the event into a highly competitive and enthralling tournament, particularly through his partnership with fellow Spanish golfer José María Olazábal. Together, they formed one of the most formidable teams in the competition’s history.

Off the course, Seve’s charisma and passion for golf shone through. He was instrumental in promoting golf in Spain and across Europe. His impact on the sport was so significant that, even after his untimely death in 2011 due to brain cancer, his legacy continues to inspire golfers around the world.

2. Jon Rahm

Jon Rahm, a newer yet formidable name in the golf world, has a story that’s both inspiring and impressive. Born in Barrika, Basque Country, in 1994, Rahm’s golf journey began at a young age.

He quickly developed into a promising talent, eventually moving to the United States to play college golf at Arizona State University. There, he won 11 collegiate tournaments and was the number one golfer in the World Amateur Golf Ranking for a record 60 weeks.

Turning professional in 2016, Rahm’s rise was meteoric as he notched his first PGA Tour victory in 2017 at the Farmers Insurance Open.

But it was in 2021 that he really stamped his authority on the global stage by winning the U.S. Open, his first major championship. This win was particularly significant as it made him the first Spanish golfer to win the U.S. Open and vaulted him back to the world No. 1 position.

Rahm is known for his powerful driving, precise iron play, and aggressive style. Beyond his technical skills, his mental toughness and ability to perform under pressure have been key to his success. He has already made a considerable impact in major tournaments and the Ryder Cup, indicating that his career has the potential to be one of the most illustrious in modern golf.

3. José María Olazábal

José María Olazábal’s contribution to golf, particularly Spanish golf, is profound. Born in Hondarribia, Basque Country, in 1966, Olazábal showed a passion for golf from an early age.

He turned professional in 1985 and quickly made his mark by winning the European Tour’s Order of Merit in 1986 and 1989.

Olazábal’s major successes include two Masters victories in 1994 and 1999. These victories at Augusta National were a testament to his skill, particularly his short game, which is often regarded as one of the best in golf history.

His finesse with the putter and his imaginative play around the greens were key factors in his Masters triumphs.

His partnership with Seve Ballesteros in the Ryder Cup is legendary. Known as the “Spanish Armada,” their partnership was not just successful in terms of points won but also in how it inspired a sense of team spirit and passion in the European team.

Olazábal’s career, however, was not without its challenges. He suffered from rheumatoid arthritis, which sidelined him for significant periods.

His comeback, particularly his 1999 Masters win, is often cited as one of the great comeback stories in sports. His perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity have made him an inspirational figure in the golfing world.

4. Sergio García

Sergio García, often referred to as “El Niño” in his early years, has been a prominent figure in the golfing world for over two decades. Born in Borriol, Castellón, Spain, in 1980, García was introduced to golf at a very young age by his father, who was a club professional.

He quickly emerged as a prodigious talent, winning his club championship at the age of 12. García then turned professional in 1999 and made an immediate impact.

His duel with Tiger Woods in the 1999 PGA Championship, where he eventually finished second, was a highlight that announced his arrival on the world stage. Known for his exuberant personality and expressive playing style, García has been a regular contender in major tournaments.

His most notable achievement came in 2017 when he won the Masters, securing his first major championship. This victory was especially poignant as it occurred on what would have been Seve Ballesteros’ 60th birthday, paying tribute to one of his golfing heroes.

García’s game is characterized by his excellent ball-striking ability and creativity on the course.

Apart from his individual successes, García has been a stalwart in the Ryder Cup. He has represented Europe in numerous Ryder Cups, earning a reputation as one of the competition’s most successful and passionate players.

His contributions have been crucial in several of Europe’s victories against the United States.

5. Miguel Ángel Jiménez

Miguel Ángel Jiménez, known for his distinctive style and charismatic personality, has been a consistent presence on the European Tour for many years. Born in Malaga, Spain, in 1964, Jiménez turned professional in 1982.

He took some time to find his footing in the professional ranks, winning his first European Tour event in 1992. Jiménez is known for his unorthodox and self-taught swing, which, despite its unconventional nature, has proven to be highly effective.

His career has been marked by longevity and consistency, with numerous tournament victories across the globe. Notably, he has won over 20 times on the European Tour and has been a regular feature in the top 50 of the Official World Golf Ranking.

One of Jiménez’s most endearing qualities is his zest for life, often seen on the course with his trademark ponytail and cigar. This charisma, combined with his playing skills, has made him a favorite among golf fans worldwide.

Jiménez has also represented Europe in the Ryder Cup multiple times, bringing experience and a unique spirit to the team. His commitment to the sport extends beyond playing, as he has also taken on leadership roles, including serving as a vice-captain for the European Ryder Cup team.

6. Carlota Ciganda

Carlota Ciganda, a leading figure in women’s golf from Spain, was born in Pamplona in 1990. She had a stellar amateur career, including two victories in the Ladies’ British Amateur Championship.

Turning professional in 2011, Ciganda made an immediate impact on the Ladies European Tour (LET), winning the Order of Merit in her debut season.

Ciganda’s game is characterized by her powerful driving and her aggressive approach to the game. She has multiple victories on the LET and has also found success on the LPGA Tour.

Her ability to compete at the highest level in women’s golf is evident in her consistent performances and victories in international tournaments.

Apart from her individual success, Ciganda has been an integral part of the European Solheim Cup team. Her contributions in this prestigious team event have been vital, showcasing her skills in match play and her ability to thrive in a team environment.

Ciganda’s success has made her one of the prominent figures in Spanish golf, inspiring a new generation of female golfers in Spain. Her achievements have not only elevated her profile but have also contributed significantly to the growth and popularity of women’s golf in Spain and beyond.

7. Alvaro Quiros

Alvaro Quiros, hailing from La Línea de la Concepción in Spain, has made a name for himself in the golf world with his remarkable power and distance off the tee. Born in 1983, Quiros turned professional in 2004 after a successful amateur career.

He quickly established himself on the European Tour with his impressive long drives, earning him the nickname ‘The Spanish Bomber’. His success on the European Tour has been significant, although he has faced some challenges in transitioning that success to the major championships.

Quiros has several European Tour victories to his credit, showcasing not just his driving ability but also his overall game. His most notable win came in the 2011 Dubai Desert Classic, where he held off a strong field to claim victory.

Apart from his prowess on the course, Quiros is known for his amiable personality and approachability, making him popular among both fans and fellow golfers. His career has seen some ups and downs, particularly with injuries, but his talent and potential have always kept him in the spotlight.

8. Rafa Cabrera Bello

Rafa Cabrera Bello, another prominent Spanish golfer, was born in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, in 1984. Cabrera Bello turned professional in 2005 and has since carved out a successful career for himself, particularly on the European Tour.

He is known for his consistency and well-rounded game, which has led to several tournament victories. One of Cabrera Bello’s significant achievements was winning the Dubai Desert Classic in 2012, a tournament that has been won by many of the game’s greats.

He has also performed admirably in the Ryder Cup, representing Europe and contributing to the team’s efforts with his steady play.

Cabrera Bello’s game is characterized by his smooth swing and his ability to perform under pressure. He has frequently featured in the top 50 of the Official World Golf Ranking, reflecting his consistent performance in tournaments around the world.

9. Ángel Miguel Gutiérrez

Ángel Miguel Gutiérrez, a notable figure in the annals of Spanish golf, hails from a generation that paved the way for future Spanish golfers on the international stage. Born in Madrid in 1929, Gutiérrez turned professional in the 1950s, a time when Spanish golf was still gaining its footing on the global golf scene.

His career spanned several decades, during which he became one of Spain’s premier golfers. In his prime, Gutiérrez was known for his skillful play and strategic approach to the game.

He competed in numerous international tournaments, representing Spain and showcasing the growing talent in Spanish golf. His legacy in Spanish golf is marked by his pioneering role and his dedication to the sport.

Gutiérrez’s contribution to golf goes beyond his playing achievements. He was instrumental in promoting the sport in Spain, helping to lay the groundwork for future generations of Spanish golfers.

While he may not have the extensive list of international victories that later Spanish golfers achieved, his impact was felt in his consistent performances and his role as a mentor and inspiration to younger players.

10. Elvira Larrazábal

Elvira Larrazábal, a trailblazer in women’s golf in Spain, has made significant contributions to the sport. Born in an era when women’s golf was still developing its presence, Larrazábal’s passion and skill for the game shone through from a young age.

She emerged as one of the leading female golfers in Spain, inspiring many young women to take up the sport. Her career is marked by her successes in national and international tournaments.

Larrazábal demonstrated not only technical skill but also a pioneering spirit, competing in events that were crucial in raising the profile of women’s golf in Spain and beyond. Her achievements helped to break down barriers and pave the way for future generations of female golfers in the country.

Beyond her achievements on the course, Larrazábal has been a strong advocate for women’s golf. Her involvement in the sport has extended to mentoring young players and promoting golf as a sport for women at a time when it was largely dominated by men.

Her legacy lies in her contributions to the growth of women’s golf in Spain and her role as a pioneer in the sport in the country.

11. Jorge Campillo

Jorge Campillo, a contemporary Spanish golfer, has made his mark on the European Tour with a steady rise through the ranks. Born in Cáceres, Spain, in 1986, Campillo turned professional in 2009 after a successful amateur career, including a standout tenure at Indiana University in the United States.

Campillo is known for his consistent performances on the European Tour. He recorded his first European Tour win at the Trophee Hassan II in Morocco in 2019, a victory that came as a result of years of dedication and hard work.

This win was a significant milestone in his career, showcasing his ability to compete and succeed at the highest levels of European golf.

His playing style is characterized by his precise iron play and steady putting, making him a regular contender in tournaments. Campillo has demonstrated a remarkable ability to maintain his form and competitiveness over the years, steadily climbing the Official World Golf Ranking.

In addition to his individual achievements, Campillo has represented Spain in team events, contributing to the country’s proud tradition in international golf. His career, marked by persistence and gradual improvement, serves as an inspiration for aspiring golfers and highlights the depth of talent in Spanish golf.

12. Pablo Larrazábal

Pablo Larrazábal, a prominent figure in Spanish golf, has carved out a successful career with a blend of skill and determination. Born in Barcelona in 1983, Larrazábal comes from a family with a strong golfing background, which undoubtedly influenced his early interest in the sport.

He turned professional in 2004, and his journey since then has been marked by notable achievements. His breakthrough on the came in Europian tour 2008 when he won the French Open, a victory that put him on the map as one of Spain’s emerging golf talents.

Larrazábal is known for his aggressive playing style and his ability to pull off challenging shots, making him a thrilling player to watch. He has multiple European Tour wins to his name, demonstrating his ability to compete at a high level consistently.

Beyond his playing successes, Larrazábal is known for his lively personality on the course, often engaging with fans and showing a genuine love for the game. His career has seen ups and downs, but his resilience and passion for golf have kept him as a regular contender in European and international tournaments.

13. Alejandro del Rey

Alejandro del Rey, a newer name in Spanish golf, represents the promising future of the sport in Spain. Born in Madrid in 1998, del Rey’s rise in golf has been noteworthy.

He had a strong amateur career, including a standout performance at Arizona State University, which is known for its prestigious golf program. Del Rey then turned professional in 2020, entering the professional golf scene amidst the unique challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite these obstacles, he has shown remarkable potential in his early professional outings. He is known for his powerful drives and sharp iron play, traits that position him well in modern competitive golf.

As he navigates the early stages of his professional career, del Rey’s focus is on gaining experience and making his mark in professional tournaments. His journey is closely watched by those who follow Spanish golf, as he is seen as one of the bright talents emerging from the country’s rich golfing tradition.

14. David Puig

David Puig, another young and promising golfer from Spain, has been making waves in the amateur golfing world. His journey in golf began at a young age, showing immense talent and a deep passion for the sport.

Puig’s amateur career has been marked by impressive performances, including significant victories and high rankings in amateur golf standings. While still in the early stages of his career, Puig’s playing style and achievements have drawn attention.

He possesses a well-rounded game, with a particular strength in his strategic approach and mental toughness on the course. These qualities bode well for his future transition into the professional ranks.

Puig’s progress is watched with great interest by golf enthusiasts in Spain and beyond. As he continues to develop his skills and gain experience, he represents the potential future of Spanish golf.

His journey offers a glimpse into the continuous emergence of talented young golfers from Spain, keeping the country’s rich golfing heritage alive and vibrant.

15. Paula Marti

Paula Marti, a name that resonates in the world of women’s golf in Spain, has made significant contributions to the sport. Born in Barcelona in 1980, Marti’s journey in golf started at a young age, and she quickly showed a natural talent for the game.

Her progression in the sport was both rapid and impressive, leading her to turn professional in the early 2000s. From there, Marti’s impact on the Ladies European Tour (LET) was immediate.

She had a remarkable rookie season, winning the LET’s Rookie of the Year award in 2002. This achievement was not just a personal triumph for Marti but also a moment of pride for Spanish golf, as it highlighted the emerging talent in the country’s women’s golf scene.

Her playing style is marked by precision and finesse, and she has been particularly praised for her short game. Marti’s ability to perform under pressure has been evident in her tournament play, where she has shown consistency and resilience.

Beyond her achievements on the course, Marti has been a role model for young female golfers in Spain. Her success has inspired a new generation of players, contributing to the growing popularity of women’s golf in the country.

Paula Marti’s journey in golf is a testament to the depth of talent in Spanish golf and the rising prominence of women in the sport.

Anna is the founder of Spain Inspired, where she shares insider tips and hidden gems to inspire thousands of visitors each month to take the road less traveled and explore Spain like a local. Having lived in Spain for some time now, Anna's made it her mission to help fellow travelers experience the very best of this stunning country - with some great wine and tapas along the way, ideally!

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Tracing the Swings: Famous Spanish Golfers Who Made History

Updated on: 31/12/2023

Explore the vibrant heritage of Spanish golf, introducing readers to the lush courses that have nurtured some of the world’s most remarkable talent. From seaside links to mountainous backdrops, Spain’s golf landscape is as diverse as the famous spanish golfers it has produced.

Sweeping the European Tour: Spain’s Impact

Dive into the history of Spanish golfers on the European Tour. This section would cover their significant wins, the european tour titles they’ve collected, and the influence Spanish professional golfers have had on the tour itself.

Seve Ballesteros

Birthplace: Pedreña, Cantabria, Spain

Age: Would have been 66 (as of 2023)

Titles Won: 5 Major Championships (1979, 1984, 1988 Open Championship; 1980, 1983 Masters Tournament)

Turned Pro: 1974

Seve Ballesteros, often hailed as one of the most talented and charismatic golfers, was a trailblazer for Spanish golf. Born in the small fishing village of Pedreña, Spain, Ballesteros turned professional at the age of 16. His career was marked by an exceptional short game, creativity, and a fiery spirit that led him to win five major championships. Beyond his playing career, Seve was instrumental in popularizing golf in Spain and Europe, and he left a lasting legacy through his golf course design business and his foundation aimed at nurturing young golfers. His untimely passing in 2011 from brain cancer was a profound loss to the golf world.

José María Olazábal

Birthplace: Hondarribia, Basque Country, Spain

Age: 57 (as of 2023)

Titles Won: 2 Major Championships (1994 & 1999 Masters Tournament)

Turned Pro: 1985

José María Olazábal is a name that resonates deeply within the golfing community for his precision and passion. Born in the Basque Country of Spain, Olazábal’s professional journey began in 1985. His prowess on the golf course is best highlighted by his two Masters Tournament victories in the 1990s. Known for his meticulous approach and strong partnership with Seve Ballesteros in Ryder Cup matches, Olazábal has also faced and overcome challenges with health, showcasing his resilience. His contributions to golf extend to captaining the European Ryder Cup team and influencing a generation of golfers with his gentlemanly conduct and dedication.

Sergio García

Birthplace: Borriol, Castellón, Spain

Age: 43 (as of 2023)

Titles Won: 1 Major Championship (2017 Masters Tournament)

Turned Pro: 1999

Sergio García, affectionately known as ‘El Niño’ for his emergence on the scene as a teenager, is one of the most recognized Spanish golfers of the modern era. García’s career leapfrogged when he turned professional in 1999 and soon after engaged in a memorable duel with Tiger Woods at the PGA Championship. His major breakthrough came with a Masters win in 2017, which was a testament to his skill and perseverance. García is also known for his animated celebrations and emotional expressiveness on the course, making him a favorite among golf fans. His ongoing career continues to inspire with its longevity and flair.

Miguel Ángel Jiménez

Birthplace: Málaga, Andalusia, Spain

Age: 59 (as of 2023)

Titles Won: 21 European Tour Titles

Turned Pro: 1982

Miguel Ángel Jiménez, with his distinctive ponytail and love for cigars, is one of golf’s most colorful characters. Born in the sun-soaked region of Andalusia, Spain, Jiménez turned professional in 1982 and has since enjoyed a long and successful career. Known as “The Mechanic” for his unusual pre-round stretching routine, Jiménez has won numerous European Tour events and has been a stalwart member of victorious Ryder Cup teams. Off the course, he is just as engaging, with a love for fine wine and cars, embodying the spirit of a golfer who plays with joy and lives with zest.

Enshrined in Excellence: Spanish Inductees of the World Golf Hall

Highlight Spanish golfers whose legacies have been cemented in the World Golf Hall of Fame. Discuss their groundbreaking achievements and the attributes that led them to be recognized among the sport’s leading figures.

From Fairways to Fame: The Journey of a Spanish Professional Golfer

Profile the journey of a typical Spanish professional golfer, tracing the steps from a gifted golfing family to competitive professional golf, and possibly achieving a coveted spot on the PGA Tour.

PGA Tour Triumphs: Spanish Golfers on the Global Stage

Examine the presence and successes of Spanish golfers on the PGA Tour, discussing major championships and their contributions to the victorious Ryder Cup teams.

The Icons: Severiano Ballesteros Sota and His Compatriots

Focus on Seve Ballesteros, his professional career, his role in the golf course design business, and his appearances on the covers of golf digest magazine. Reflect on other icons like Miguel Ángel Jiménez and their unique place in the golfing world.

Ryder Cup Glories: The Spanish Influence

Detail the victories and contributions of Spanish golfers to the European team in the Ryder Cup, and how they’ve helped shape the tournament’s history.

Majestic Masters: Spanish Golfers at Augusta

Share stories of Spanish golfers who have donned the green jacket at the Masters Tournament, and the impact of these wins on Spanish golf.

The Future on the Fairways: Spanish Golfers Today

Look at the current crop of Spanish golfers turning professional, their early victories, and how they are influenced by the legends of yesteryear.

Reflect on the vibrant history of Spanish golf, its impact on the sport, and what the future holds, with a nod to the rising stars from Spain.

Who are some famous Latino golfers?

In the world of golf, Latino players have carved out their own legacy with flair and finesse. Notable figures include the likes of Chi Chi Rodríguez from Puerto Rico, known for his charismatic play and philanthropy, and the Mexican golfer Lorena Ochoa, who topped the LPGA Tour rankings for over three years.

Others who have made significant strides include Argentine golfer Ángel Cabrera, a two-time major champion, and Colombian Camilo Villegas, celebrated for his unique “spider” putting style. These athletes have not only showcased their exceptional talent but have also served as ambassadors of the sport, inspiring a new generation of Latino golfers.

Who was the most successful Spanish golfer?

When discussing the most successful Spanish golfer, one name stands preeminent: Severiano Ballesteros Sota, more commonly known as Seve Ballesteros. His achievements are the stuff of legend, with five major championships to his name, including three Open Championships and two Masters Tournaments. Ballesteros was known for his imaginative and bold style of play, often pulling off incredible shots from seemingly impossible situations.

His legacy extends beyond the fairways, as he helped elevate the status of the European Tour and played a pivotal role in reviving European success in the Ryder Cup. Seve’s influence continues to echo through the corridors of golf history, making him an enduring icon of the sport.

Who is the best Latino golfer?

Determining the best Latino golfer today can lead to various opinions, but one contender stands out for his consistent excellence and impact on the sport: Jon Rahm. The Spanish professional golfer has made a swift ascent in the world of golf, becoming the first Spaniard to win the U.S. Open in 2021. With his powerful swing and fierce competitiveness, Rahm has maintained a strong presence in the world rankings and has been a formidable competitor on both the PGA and European Tours. His trajectory not only makes him a current leading figure in golf but also places him among the top sports personalities to emerge from Latino heritage.

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The Most Famous

Golfers from spain.

This page contains a list of the greatest Spanish Golfers . The pantheon dataset contains 61 Golfers , 4 of which were born in Spain . This makes Spain the birth place of the 4th most number of Golfers behind United Kingdom and South Africa .

The following people are considered by Pantheon to be the most legendary Spanish Golfers of all time. This list of famous Spanish Golfers is sorted by HPI (Historical Popularity Index), a metric that aggregates information on a biography’s online popularity.

1. Seve Ballesteros ( 1957 - 2011 )

With an HPI of 52.17 , Seve Ballesteros is the most famous Spanish Golfer .   His biography has been translated into 34 different languages on wikipedia.

Severiano Ballesteros Sota (Spanish pronunciation: [seβeˈɾjano βaʎesˈteɾos]; 9 April 1957 – 7 May 2011) was a Spanish professional golfer, a World No. 1 who was one of the sport's leading figures from the mid-1970s to the mid-1990s. A member of a gifted golfing family, he won 90 international tournaments in his career, including five major championships between 1979 and 1988; The Open Championship three times and the Masters Tournament twice. He gained attention in the golfing world in 1976, when at the age of 19, he finished second at The Open. He played a leading role in the re-emergence of European golf, helping the European Ryder Cup team to five wins both as a player and captain. Ballesteros won a record 50 European Tour titles. He won at least one European Tour title for 17 consecutive years between 1976 and 1992. His final victory was at the 1995 Peugeot Spanish Open. Largely because of back-related injuries, Ballesteros struggled with his form during the late 1990s. Despite this, he continued to be involved in golf, creating the Seve Trophy and running a golf course design business. In 2000, Golf Digest magazine ranked Ballesteros as the greatest Continental European golfer of all time. In the 2000s, Ballesteros played sparingly due to continuing back problems and in 2007 he eventually retired from competitive professional golf. In 2008 he was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumour. Ballesteros was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award for the second time at the BBC Sports Personality Awards in 2009. He was presented with the award at his home in Spain by his compatriot and former Ryder Cup teammate José María Olazábal. Ballesteros died of brain cancer in 2011, aged 54.

2 . Miguel Ángel Jiménez ( 1964 - )

With an HPI of 37.40 , Miguel Ángel Jiménez is the 2nd most famous Spanish Golfer .   His biography has been translated into 15 different languages.

Miguel Ángel Jiménez Rodríguez (born 5 January 1964) is a Spanish professional golfer. He has won 21 times on the European Tour, holds the record for most starts on the European Tour, and has been a member of two victorious Ryder Cup teams.

3 . Sergio García ( 1980 - )

With an HPI of 33.20 , Sergio García is the 3rd most famous Spanish Golfer .   His biography has been translated into 28 different languages.

Sergio García Fernández (pronounced [ˈseɾxjo ɣaɾˈθi.a feɾˈnandeθ]; born 9 January 1980) is a Spanish professional golfer. He turned professional in 1999 and played on the European Tour and PGA Tour prior to joining LIV Golf in 2022. García has won 36 international tournaments as a professional, most notably the 2008 Players Championship and the 2017 Masters Tournament. García was also the Chairman of Spanish football team CF Borriol. García has spent much of his career in the top 10 of the Official World Golf Ranking, including over 300 weeks in the top 10 between 2000 and 2009, and over 450 weeks in the top 10 in total. He reached his highest career ranking, second, after winning the HSBC Champions tournament in November 2008. García has achieved career earnings of more than US$43 million. As a player, he is noted for strong iron play and accuracy. In the Ryder Cup, he competed in ten of the eleven matches playing during his professional career cumulatively earning a record 28.5 points during those matches.

4 . Jon Rahm ( 1994 - )

With an HPI of 29.73 , Jon Rahm is the 4th most famous Spanish Golfer .   His biography has been translated into 15 different languages.

Jon Rahm Rodríguez (born 10 November 1994) is a Spanish professional golfer. He was number one in the World Amateur Golf Ranking for a then record 60 weeks and later became world number one in the Official World Golf Ranking, first achieving that rank after winning the Memorial Tournament in July 2020. In June 2021, Rahm became the first Spanish golfer to win the U.S. Open. In 2023, he won the Masters Tournament, his second major championship. On 7 December 2023, Rahm announced that he was joining LIV Golf.

Pantheon has 4 people classified as golfers born between 1957 and 1994 . Of these 4 , 3 ( 75.00% ) of them are still alive today. The most famous living golfers include Miguel Ángel Jiménez , Sergio García , and Jon Rahm . The most famous deceased golfers include Seve Ballesteros . As of April 2022, 1 new golfers have been added to Pantheon including Jon Rahm .

Living Golfers

Miguel ángel jiménez.

1964 - Present

Sergio García

1980 - Present

1994 - Present

Deceased Golfers

Seve ballesteros.

1957 - 2011

Newly Added Golfers (2022)

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The curse of the World Golf Championships on Spanish golfers is now 20 years old and very, very real

I was there in 2014, in Akron, Ohio, watching the final round of the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational. This was dead in the chronological middle of Rory McIlroy’s last stretch of true dominance, between victories at the Open Championship at Hoylake and the PGA at Valhalla, but the star of the Bridgestone until Sunday afternoon had been Sergio Garcia.

On Friday, Garcia put together the putting performance of the season, finishing his round with 11 straight one-putts and tying the course record at 61. Heading into Sunday, he held a three-shot lead on Rory. After eating lunch with his opponent and chattering nervously on the range with anyone who would listen, the then 34-year-old teed it up, nodded to the fans and blew the lead in three holes. When he chunked his approach on the second hole, David Feherty couldn’t resist a private quip to a nearby journalist: “Is it fair to say that if he hit it any farther behind it, he’d have to add it to yesterday’s score?” On the third hole, his errant shot knocked the diamond ring off a woman’s hand, and it took a search party to find it. When he made bogey on the green, he had lost lead, and he’d never get it back.

That day, I thought I witnessed one great player with a penchant for the dramatic collapse, and another in the midst of an historic heater. I also thought I witnessed a conclusion that hewed pretty close to emotional and psychological expectations. What I didn’t realize—what, in fact, I only came to understand this week—was that I had also witnessed an ongoing national curse that is now approaching its 20th anniversary.

Spain has a rich golf history matched by very few countries, and I wrote last year about how Spanish golfers have collectively been the most successful Ryder Cup warriors in history—better even than the Americans. From Seve Ballesteros to Jose Maria Olazabal to Miguel Angel Jimenez to Garcia, the nation has churned out legends and major champions, and the record is particularly impressive when you consider that golf is far less prominent in Spain than in the other long-established powers. Their tradition is a proud one, and it stands if not toe-to-toe, than at least on the same exalted turf with the juggernauts of the sport.

With one exception: the World Golf Championships. There have been 76 WGC events since the first Andersen Consulting Match Play Championship in 1999, and in that time, there have been exactly zero Spanish winners. Even considering representation and sample size, this is a surprising anomaly. The list of nations that has produced at least one winner in that time includes the obvious titans—America, England, Northern Ireland, Australia, South Africa, Ireland—but also plenty of relative minnows, from Wales to Canada to Germany to Italy to Scotland (save your rage, Caledonians … in terms of modern pros, yes, Scotland is a minnow) to Fiji to Sweden to Japan. Many of those nations have produced fewer major champions than Spain, and one, Japan, has never produced one at all.

RELATED: Where does Phil Mickelson rank among the greatest OMGs (Old Man Golfers)?

So, as you see, Spain’s absence is anomalous. But anomalies do not curses make—for that, only the most agonizing anecdotal evidence will suffice. So let me take you now to the third WGC ever contested (then the “American Express Championship,” currently this week’s Mexico Championship), played on Spanish soil at historic Valderrama in 1999.

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There, Jimenez—who grew up an hour away in Malaga—battled in front of a “wildly partisan Spanish gallery” on a windy Sunday when the Spanish Civil Guard had to be mobilized to keep the fans from the players. El Mecanico was tied for the lead heading into the final round, and played one of just six sub-par scores on that difficult afternoon. Unfortunately for him, one of the others belonged to Tiger Woods, who played so well that when he came to No. 17, he appeared to have the victory in the bag. Then he made a triple bogey that he blamed on Seve Ballesteros’ difficult design, the crowd cheered in a way that infuriated him and, minutes later, with Woods in the clubhouse, Jimenez came to the 72nd hole leading by one. The AP’s Stephen Wade narrated what happened next:

“But he took a bogey 5 on 18 when he drove into slight trouble on the left, punched a shot short of the green and then landed his approach 25 feet long. His shot at winning was a near-perfect chip that lipped out and left him a tap-in for the playoff.”

“Jimenez, supported by cheering fans only 60 miles from his home in Malaga, broke down in tears after the playoff loss …”

That lip-out and the ensuing loss to Tiger’s playoff birdie—the GOAT gave “a quick fist-pump for the few people seemingly on his side, a cold-eyed stare for everybody else”—in the very first year of the World Golf Championships, in the heart of Spain, set the tone for everything to come. Perhaps we should call it “The Curse of El Mecanico ” or “The Curse of Valderrama.” In any case, it has now persisted for 20 years. You’ve already heard about Sergio and Rory, but let’s take a tour through the most crushing defeats …

1999: Olazabal advances to the quarterfinals of the first WGC ever, the match play in Carlsbad, before losing, 2 and 1, to John Huston. No Spanish golfer will go further until 2010. At the second event, the NEC Invitational in Akron (now the Bridgestone), Sergio finishes the first round of this stroke-play event one shot off the lead, then spends the next three days fading down the leader board, eventually losing to Tiger Woods. That exact story—Sergio starts hot, loses to Tiger—happens again at this event in 2005. It also happens at the precursor to the WGC-Mexico Championship in 2003 … and 2005 … and 2007 … and 2013.

Craig Jones

2004: At the World Cup, a two-man team event that predated the World Golf Championships and continues to this day but was only an official WGC event from 2000 to 2006, Garcia and Jimenez hold the lead coming into the final round and arrive at the 16th hole with every chance to take home the title. It does not end well :

“Spain hit back with an eagle at the 13th, but Garcia fatefully went into the water with a risky second to the par-5 16th putting the Spaniards three back. Even so Casey’s grit on the greens was called upon as he needed to sink a three-footer at the last to clinch the win with a bogey five after Spain had birdied.”

2010: Sergio—again, Sergio—becomes the first Spanish golfer to make the semifinals in the WGC-Match Play. There, he meets fellow Ryder Cup star Ian Poulter and gets demolished, 7 and 6.

2012: Rafa Cabrera Bello starts the WGC-Invitational with a 66-65, and then, inheriting the curse from his elders, shoots 77 on Saturday.

2016: Bello becomes just the second Spaniard to reach the Match Play semifinals, but doesn’t fare much better than Sergio in 2010, losing 4 and 3 to Louis Oosthuizen. Unlike Sergio, he wins the third-place match, defeating Rory, 3 and 2, to secure Spain’s best finish at the event.

2017: Jon Rahm falls just two shots shy of Dustin Johnson at the WGC-Mexico, and as if inspired by that performance and by Bello’s match-play run the year before, he storms all the way to the Match Play finals a few months later at Austin Country Club, crushing his competition (including Sergio) along the way. In the championship match, he meets DJ yet again. For the second time in Spain’s long and agonizing WGC history—and for the first time in years—one of its golfers was within a hole of taking the title. But Rahm could not complete a late comeback, and Johnson secures the 1-up win with par on 18.

David Cannon/Getty Images

It may seem like I’m mentioning the same names time and again, but Spain’s WGC roster of “nearly men” goes deep. Alvaro Quiros threatened twice at the WGC-Championship in 2009 and 2010. Gonzalo Fernandez-Castano lost the World Cup with Jimenez by three strokes in 2006 and made waves at the HSBC Champions in 2009. Pablo Larrazabal poked his head out at the 2011 Invitational, Olazabal had chances to reach the Final Four at the Match Play in 2002 and threatened at the 2005 Invitational, and Rafa Bello came into last year’s final round of the WGC-Mexico two off the lead and finished just one shot off the Mickelson-Thomas playoff.

Spain’s losses have happened in every way imaginable: 72nd-hole lip-outs, narrow match-play duels, collapses, slow fades and Sunday charges that fell just short. They have ended in anguish and tears. This Sunday, Feb. 24, will mark the 20th anniversary of the first day of WGC play. It will also be the final round in Mexico, where four Spanish golfers—Sergio, Rahm, Bello and Adrian Otaegui—will have a chance to bring the curse to an end exactly two decades after it began.

Whether they succeed or fail, I will think of Spain’s national motto: Plus ultra . The Latin phrase means “further beyond,” and embodies a philosophy of risk-taking and adventure. But in this case, the Spanish fighters at Golf Club de Chapultepec will be seeking a definitive conclusion rather than some nebulous hereafter. Perpetuity, should it win the day, belongs only to the curse.

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'This one was for Seve:' Jon Rahm joins list of legendary Spaniards to win the Masters

It was time for another Spaniard to win the Masters .

After Jon Rahm pulled away to win the 87 th  Masters on Easter Sunday, he said it is something of a birthright for the best Spanish golfers of their generation to win at Augusta National Golf Club .

“There's got to be something here about having a Spanish passport, I don't know, there's something about the grounds that transmits into all of us,” Rahm said.

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Rahm, who opened the tournament with a double bogey, finished at 12-under 276 to win by four shots over LIV Golf tour members Brooks Koepka and Phil Mickelson .

Rahm, 28, is the fourth Spaniard to win the Masters. Once a fellow countryman won, though, it was never long before it happened again in the Masters.

Seve Ballesteros started it in 1980. Three years later, he won again. After Jose Maria Olazabal won in 1994, he did it again five years later. The latest break was six years, from Sergio Garcia in 2017 until Rahm this year.

“I think the main thing, something that gave me a lot of hope, and that kind of started when Sergio won in '17, is that pretty much every great-name Spanish player has won here,” Rahm said.

In six previous Masters starts, Rahm had excelled almost every time. He was fourth in 2018, tied for ninth in 2019, tied for seventh in 2020 and tied for fifth in 2021. His worst finish was a tie for 27 th .

“I played good every year. I can't pinpoint exactly the first time, but it really became clear to me that year (in 2017, that Rahm could win),” he said.

For all his success at Augusta National, Rahm had never been in the mix to win over the final few holes on Sunday.

“To come somewhere where I've been comfortable and how great I've done here in the past but never gave myself a chance to win … all I asked for was a chance, and I got it.”

Olazabal and Garcia both missed the cut in this year’s Masters. Ballesteros died in 2011 at age 54 when Rahm was 16 years old.

“This one was for Seve,” Rahm said. “He was up there helping, and help he did.”

It was Ballesteros who put Spanish golf on the map, winning the first of his five majors at the British Open in 1979. He won 50 European Tour events and nine PGA Tour titles.

Sunday’s final round fell on the birthday of Ballesteros, who would have been 66 years old.

“Even with that bogey on 9, the support was pretty incredible all throughout, and I kept hearing, "Seve! Seve! Seve! Do it for Seve!" I heard that the entire back nine,” Rahm said. “That might have been the hardest thing to control today, is the emotion of knowing what it could be if I were to win.”

Ballesteros, never the best driver, was famous for his scrambling style golf. Fittingly, Rahm closed out the victory with what he called a “Seve par” on the 72 nd . Off the tee on the par-4 18, Rahm hit his drive into the grove of magnolias. It bounced backward, into the fairway, leaving him 236 yards to the hole. He layed up to 68 yards, hit a wedge to 4 feet and made the par putt.

Then came that famous walk up the hill to the 18 th  green. Rahm, in the final group of the day, led by four shots so the jacket was his.

“Obviously we all dream of things like this as players, and you try to visualize what it's going to be like and what it's going to feel like,” Rahm said. “And when I hit that third shot on the green, and I could tell it was close by the crowd's reaction, just the wave of emotion of so many things just overtook me. Never thought I was going to cry by winning a golf tournament, but I got very close on that 18th hole. And a lot of it because of what it means to me, and to Spanish golf, right.”

Rahm was so overcome he was almost in a daze during the winner’s news conference. An electronic scoreboard to his left in the media center showed the final leaderboard, hole by hole.

“Still really hasn't sunk in yet,” Rahm said. “I'm looking at the scores, and I still think I have a couple more holes left to win.”

Rahm, who opened with 65-69, started Sunday’s play by completing his final 12 holes of the weather-delayed third round. Down by four shots to Koepka at the time, he cut the lead to two by making a 7-foot birdie putt after Koepka made bogey on the first hole of their re-start, the seventh hole. At the end of the round, a 73 for Rahm, Koepka still led by two. Rahm’s 69 eased him past Koepka, who had 75.

“To play the way I did on Sunday, only one bogey in difficult conditions … it’s hard to explain. A lot of pride, and I am really proud of myself and what I did,” Rahm said.

“The way Jon played today was pretty impressive,” said Koepka, who was Rahm’s final-round playing partner.

Mickelson posted 65, which would turn out to be the day’s low round, just as Rahm was making his bogey on No. 9. Rahm shot 1-under 35 on the front nine and 2-under 34 on the back.

“I was two behind and Jon played an amazing back nine,” Mickelson said. “I mean, a lot can happen on that back nine, a lot of good can happen and a lot of bad, and he played some incredible golf all week long, and is a very worthy champion. Easy to see why he's regarded as the best player in the world, and he validated that today.”

It didn’t surprise Mickelson, who has been a mentor to Rahm. Mickelson’s brother (and now caddie) Tim was Rahm’s golf coach at Arizona State.

“The first time I played with him we played Whisper Rock, and he shot 62,” Phil Mickelson said. “And I thought I played pretty good, and he gave me a pretty good beat-down. So I am not surprised at his success. I mean, it was obvious to me at a very young age that he was one of the best players in the world even while he was in college. To see him on this stage is not surprising for anybody. It's hard not to pull for Jon, too. He's such a good guy. He has such a great heart and treats people so well. I think the world of him as a person. And as a player, that's obvious, how good he is.”

Early in the week, Rahm was reminded that the final round would fall on Ballesteros’ birthday. After a torrid start to this season (seven top-10 finishes and three victories), he also knew a victory would move him from No. 3 in the world ranking to No. 1.

“I was told a lot of things about why this could be the year, and I just didn't want to buy into it too much,” Rahm said.

Rahm, a student of golf history, didn’t know he could become the first European to win the Masters and the U.S. Open. Rahm’s U.S. Open win came at Torrey Pines in 2021.

“I find it hard to believe,” Rahm said. “If there's anything better than accomplishing something like this, it's making history. So the fact that you tell me that, to be the first-ever — first European ever to do that, hard to explain. Out of all the accomplishments and the many great players that have come before me, to be the first to do something like that, it's a very humbling feeling.”

Overall, Rahm now has 11 PGA Tour victories to go with nine on the European Tour.

“I’m just witnessing what he’s capable of, what he wants,” said Rahm’s caddie Adam Hayes. “He’s not done. He’s going to win a lot of tournaments.”

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Famous Hispanic Golfers

A list of famous Hispanic golfers, with photos! These are some of the most well known Mexican Americans in the United States. Currently, over 10% of the population of the United States is Hispanic. Mexican American culture is robust and full of history, with a focus on family. The people on this list vary in importance, from Mexican American heroes to simple sources of pride within America's Mexican community. These lists include as many famous hispanics as possible, that said, finding all of them would be a very difficult task. Mexican immigrants are an important part of the fabric that is the great American melting pot. They include many important, distinguished, and notable people within the USA.

Featuring top Spanish golfers and more, this list has it all. 

Lee Trevino

Widely regarded as one of the greatest ball strikers in golf history, Lee Trevino boasts six major championships under his belt, including two U.S. Open titles and consecutive triumphs at both The Open Championship and PGA Championship. Known for his unconventional swing and charismatic personality, the "Merry Mex" was a fan favorite throughout his illustrious career. Trevino not only left an indelible mark on the sport with his incredible shot-making ability but also blazed a trail for future generations of Hispanic golfers to follow.

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Nancy Lopez

Undoubtedly the most accomplished Latina golfer of all time, Nancy Lopez raised the bar for women's golf with her 48 LPGA Tour victories, highlighted by three major championships in the form of the prestigious LPGA Championship. With a passion and determination that was infectious, the New Mexico native made a lasting impact on the game both on and off the course, becoming the first woman to garner the prestigious William Richardson Award in recognition of her contributions to golf. Beyond her numerous accolades, Lopez's enduring legacy lies in her role as an ambassador for the sport and a mentor to aspiring golfers worldwide.

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Ernie Gonzalez

Ernie Gonzalez achieved his crowning golfing moment in 1986 when he claimed victory at the rain-soaked Pensacola Open, showcasing his exceptional skill in mastering the challenging conditions. Moreover, his perseverance in overcoming adversity, exemplified by his fight against kidney cancer, serves as an inspiration to countless individuals within the golfing community. Although Gonzalez's time on the PGA Tour may have been brief, fans and fellow golfers alike will always remember him for his unwavering determination and remarkable talent.

Homero Blancas

The remarkable story of Homero Blancas begins with his awe-inspiring, record-breaking round of 55 during the 1962 Premier Invitational - a score that remains unmatched in golf history to this day. Turning pro in 1965, Blancas went on to collect four PGA Tour victories, bolstering his status as a formidable force within the game. His lasting impact, however, stems from his admirable character and sportsmanship, as evidenced by his receipt of the prestigious Ben Hogan Award in 1993, an accolade which honors those who have overcome adversity to excel in the sport.

Robert Gamez

Robert Gamez's illustrious golf career is epitomized by his exceptional rookie season in 1990, during which he clinched two PGA Tour titles and was subsequently named the PGA Tour Rookie of the Year. His incredible walk-off eagle at the 1990 Nestle Invitational remains etched in golfing folklore, further cementing his status as a clutch performer. Though Gamez never managed to capture a major championship, his impact on the sport is indisputable, proving to aspiring Hispanic golfers success at the highest level is truly achievable.

Al Espinosa

Al Espinosa emerged as a pioneer for Hispanic golfers during the 1920s and 1930s, becoming one of the first Mexican-American professional golfers to gain recognition on the global stage. Espinosa's greatest claim to fame was his agonizingly close runner-up finish at the 1928 U.S. Open, falling to Johnny Farrell in a 36-hole playoff after tying for the lead. Despite this heartbreak, Espinosa's barrier-breaking career paved the way for future generations of Hispanic golfers.

Abe Espinosa

Abe Espinosa, Al's older brother, also made significant strides for Hispanic golfers during the early 20th century. Most notably, Abe captured the prestigious Western Open in 1928, becoming the first Mexican-American golfer to win a major professional tournament. His triumph signaled to countless aspiring Hispanic golfers they, too, could achieve greatness on the fairways and greens.

Joe Jimenez

Heralded as one of the finest golfers ever to hail from San Antonio, Joe Jimenez's impressive amateur career was highlighted by his Texas State Amateur Championship victory in 1961. Turning professional in 1965, Jimenez competed on the PGA Tour for over a decade, before transitioning into a successful club professional career. Though he never captured a PGA Tour title, Jimenez's dedication to the sport and impact on the local golfing community is undeniable, inspiring countless young Texans to pick up the game.

With three victories on the PGA Tour, Pat Perez has established himself as a formidable competitor in the world of professional golf. His most recent triumph came at the 2017 CIMB Classic, an event co-sanctioned by the Asian Tour, showcasing his ability to excel on the global stage. Perez's unwavering determination and longevity within the sport serve as an inspiration to Hispanic golfers worldwide.

Tony Holguin

A stalwart of the PGA Tour during the 1950s and 1960s, Tony Holguin amassed an impressive 36 top-10 finishes throughout his career, though he was unable to secure a coveted tour victory. Despite not capturing a title, Holguin's consistent performances earned him a reputation as a tenacious and talented golfer. His dedication to the sport serves as a testament to aspiring Hispanic golfers that hard work and perseverance can lead to success at the highest level.

Lorena Ochoa

Arguably the most dominant female golfer of her generation, Lorena Ochoa's meteoric rise to the top of the women's game saw her secure 27 LPGA Tour victories, including two major championships at the Women's British Open and ANA Inspiration. The Mexican sensation's remarkable achievements led to her being named the LPGA Player of the Year four times, while she held the coveted World No. 1 ranking for a staggering 158 consecutive weeks. Beyond her undeniable on-course prowess, Ochoa's impact on the sport continues through the numerous charitable initiatives she supports, showcasing her commitment to the betterment of golf and the wider community.

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Lists of famous and notable Latinx and Hispanic professionals, characters, athletes, and more.

Spanish golf legend makes TWO HOLE-IN-ONES to win PGA Tour Champions event

Miguel Angel Jimenez made two hole-in-ones at the Cologuard Classic on his way to securing a four-shot victory and his 12th win on the PGA Tour Champions.

Miguel Angel Jimenez, the European hole-in-one king, made two aces during the week at the Cologuard Classic to win his 12th PGA Tour Champions title.

The 58-year-old made a hole-in-one on the par-3 14th hole to pull away from the great Bernhard Langer and secure a four-shot victory at Tucson National.

Jimenez's ace on the back nine in the final round was his second of the week. He made his first one on the seventh hole in the first round. 

In 2015, the popular Spaniard made a hole-in-one on the par-3 second hole at Wentworth to break the European Tour hole-in-one record with 10 aces.

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An ACE for @majimenez1964 ! He drains it and treats the crowd to a victory dance. pic.twitter.com/x9g1cUMWKA — PGA TOUR Champions (@ChampionsTour) February 25, 2022

Jimenez entered the final round of the Cologuard Classic with a two-shot lead and he extended this with a birdie and an eagle in his first two holes.

Langer got within three shots of the lead with four birdies on the front nine, but with his ace on the 14th, Jimenez pulled away to win on 18-under-par, winning for the second time in his last three starts on the PGA Tour Champions.

Langer, who won his 43rd PGA Tour champions title at the Chubb Classic last week, finished in a tie for second with Woody Austin on 14-under-par.

Jimenez won for the first time on the veteran's tour at the Greater Gwinnett Championship in 2014. He made his PGA Tour debut in 2000.

He has 21 wins on the DP World Tour in his career and he has represented Europe four times at the Ryder Cup, winning the event twice.

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Miguel Angel Jimenez: The World's Most Interesting Golfer

Hitting on the terrace of the Doral Country Club in Miami, a demitasse of espresso in one hand, a Vegas Robaina cigar in the other, Miguel Angel Jimenez could have been another spectator at the Cadillac World Golf Championship event. With his graying red ponytail and goatee, his little pot belly, his air of ethereal calm accentuated by the faint haze of smoke, the 47-year-old Spaniard struck a pose that belied the fire within—a fire that burns for golf, a fire that burns for life.

In the era of flat bellies and distant personalities, in the era defined by Tiger Woods, fitness trailers and prize money fit for a king, Miguel Angel Jimenez stands as his own man. Sure, he’ll hit balls before he plays. But he might also have a glass of wine. Sure, he’ll putt and chip. But he will certainly have a cup or two of espresso. Sure, he’s determined to be the best player he can be (with 18 European Tour victories), but he will also make sure he takes the time to savor his life.

European super agent Andrew “Chubby” Chandler has seen all the great ones of the last four decades. He represents Lee Westwood, Darren Clarke, Padraig Harrington and the blossoming Rory McIlroy. He does not represent Jimenez, but he unabashedly admires him.

“He’s a man of his own and everyone appreciates him,” says Chandler. “He lives his life and plays the game the way he wants to. He never rushes anything, he savors everything. He just inhales life, and he exudes it. I’ve never known someone more comfortable in his own skin than Miguel.” Between puffs and sips on the Doral terrace, Jimenez sums up his world: “I give all my life to golf, and golf gives me all my life.”

To watch Jimenez play golf, to watch him connect with other players, to watch him acknowledge his fans, is to see a man who savors what he is doing. His long, sweeping, fluid swing, his easy, deliberate stride, his smile that brings an extra crease to his well-weathered face all speak of a man who will stop to smell the roses.

“It is important, no, to love what you are doing?” asks Jimenez. “It is important to enjoy the things that life brings you. I always know that when I start to play golf, that this is what I would like to do. I become good enough to be successful and have many good things for my life.”

Right then, Jimenez picks up the reporter’s tape recorder from the table and holds it close to his mouth, like a microphone: “I just want to say that golf is a beautiful game and it has given me a beautiful life.”

These passionate words are typical from a man who lives the game and doesn’t just play it, who lives his life and doesn’t merely walk through it. And the words come from a man who knows how lucky he is to be doing what loves.

Jimenez is one of seven brothers born to a modest family in Malaga, Spain. His father was a mason and his mother had her hands full with so many boys. His oldest brother Juan caught the golf bug by caddying to make money, and eventually became a teaching professional at the Torrequebrada club. Juan needed extra caddies and the 15-year-old Miguel, having dropped out of school, volunteered. It wasn’t the golf that interested Miguel, it was the pesetas.

Soon he was coming back often for the pesetas, and for something more. The game was starting to creep into his heart, and the older caddies were teaching him to hit balls, out of sight of the club members who frowned on them doing anything but carrying their bags. The 1979 Spanish Open was held at Torrequebrada and Miguel was able to get a bag and thus get a close-up view of the magnificent Spaniard Seve Ballesteros and of the talented Scotsmen Sandy Lyle and Sam Torrance. “After I finished the army, my mandatory duty, I was 21. I knew that I wanted to play golf,” says Jimenez. “I always like to compete, right from the beginning when I was caddying at 15. Seve was already a winner when I started to play golf. He’s nearly seven years older than me. He won his first major (1979) the year I really started to play. He become a great player, it was very good to see.”

Miguel Angel Jimenez wasn’t Seve Ballesteros, however. He wasn’t a prodigy. After turning professional in 1982 it took him a while to finally reach the European Tour in 1988, to win his first tournament in 1992, to become a European star with four victories in 2004. All along, he had no doubt where he was heading and what he wanted—a life built around the game. And it would be a complete life, full of rich details.

In a sense, Miguel has become the perfect representation of the European Tour, which still has a more idiosyncratic atmosphere than its big brother, the PGA Tour, in the United States. He’s a true individual, with a very distinct character but that fits in well in Europe. He thinks nothing about having a glass of wine before he goes out to play. He will surely have wine at dinner and maybe a nice brandy or whisky.

He always enjoyed wine, but once becoming successful he could indulge in it, especially his much beloved Riojas (“They should call me Miguel Angel Rioja!”). He went from cigarettes to cigars, gaining a taste for Cubans. His fondness for cars (he worked in an auto service shop for a few months, earning him the Tour nickname “The Mechanic”) could now be translated to ownership.

Being a very proud Andalucian, you just had to figure his taste in wines would center around the Spanish greats, especially those from Rioja. Among his collection are Cirsion, Ardanza, Torre Muga, Marques de Riscal and Roda. He also has a number of wines from Ribera del Duero—Pesquera, Protos, Vegas Sicilia, Emilio Moro, Abadia Retuerta and Mauro.

Of course he also enjoys a glass of fino sherry and a number of rums including Barcelo Imperial, Brugal and Zacapa. A Bushmills 1608 Irish whiskey or a Lagavulin 16-Year-Old single malt Scotch whisky will do him quite well. “The Lagavulin is nice and smoky, goes great with a cigar,” says Jimenez, relishing the words in the manner he would relish the whisky and the cigar.

Then there are the cigars. Ah, yes, the cigars. He usually smokes four or five a day. He will smoke cigars during practice rounds and pro-ams, but he does not, he is careful to say, smoke during an official round. But you can bet a box of Montecristos that he will have one just before he tees off and just after he finishes, often lighting up before he signs his scorecard. He is such a fan of the Cuban cigars that he attended the 2010 Festival del Habanos.

“I love Cuban cigars. They have that spiciness and sweetness that are missing from some others,” he says. “One day at the festival I smoked nine cigars and I feel nothing in my throat. That is good cigars, no?”

He likes his cigars big and juicy, generally a 52 to 56 ring. His favorite is the Siglo VI and he regularly enjoys the Cohiba Behike, but really any Cuban cigar will do. He figures he has about 400 cigars in his humidors, and he can’t quash a wry grin when saying that he gets them at a bargain rate in Spain.

“It is relaxing to enjoy a good wine, a cigar, good food, a whisky,” he says. “You have to take the time to enjoy them. You cannot enjoy them if you rush them, no? You cannot enjoy life if you rush.”

Says Thomas Bjorn, the Danish European Tour veteran: “Miguel enjoys everything about the lifestyle of the game, and that’s very important. Traveling as much as we do, eating out as much as we do, being away from a steady home life, Miguel embraces it all and enjoys himself.”

Then there’s his Ferrari. Perhaps nothing gives him quite so much pleasure as a spin in his red 1999 Ferrari 550 Maranello which he will drive to all the tournaments in Spain. “I love this car,” he says, but nowadays he can’t really live up to his nickname. He often worked on his own cars back in the 1980s, but as they became more sophisticated, his mechanical skills didn’t keep pace. “I really can’t work on this now myself,” he says. “The cars these days, they are all electronic. I really can’t be The Mechanic.”

You must know, too, that Jimenez is an aficionado of good shoes. He has his golf shoes and his street shoes custom made by Gigi Nebuloni, a small, family-owned business in Milan. There is nothing that quite stimulates his comfort hormones more than slipping on a pair of Nebuloni shoes. He has about 50 pairs of the golf shoes alone, and they stand out on the Tour as classics now that some form of cross-trainers has become vogue.

“These are pure leather, very soft,” says Jimenez, who conditions them with horse fat. “I always liked very good shoes. I have been with them 11 years now. You take them from the box and they feel so good right away. I don’t like tennis shoes, rubber shoes. I always liked proper shoes, leather shoes.” ith all these embellishments of the good life available to him, Jimenez remains passionately devoted to the game. His European Tour career might not be considered stellar but is certainly by any measure successful. His biggest victory was the 2008 BMW PGA Championship. His 2010 season was a sparkler with wins in the Omega European Masters, the Alstom Open de France and the Omega Dubai Desert Classic. He has not won in the United States but has played in several major championships and World Championship Golf events. He finished second in the 2000 U.S. Open and third in the 2001 British Open.

Then there is the Ryder Cup, central to his golf psyche.

“It is very important to me to try to play the Ryder Cup. It is a magnificent tournament to me, it is tremendously exciting,” says Jimenez, his voice rising ever so slightly. “It’s the heaven of golf. You need to be inside my skin to know what is going on there.”

Appropriately, his connection with the Ryder Cup came in Spain when European captain Seve Ballesteros asked him to be a vice-captain for the matches at Valderrama. He was deeply honored and humbled to be chosen by Spain’s greatest player, and he soon learned that he would be deeply moved by the experience, so much so that he would give it his all to compete.

He played on the 1999, 2004 and 2008 teams with limited success and was not particularly happy that he lost all three of his singles matches. He had also not qualified for a Ryder Cup that had been played in Europe, so he doubled his efforts to qualify for the 2010 team, knowing that it was unlikely that captain Colin Montgomerie would make him a wildcard selection if he didn’t qualify on points.

When Peter Hanson won the Czech Open in August, he earned enough points to put Jimenez’s Ryder Cup position in jeopardy. So Jimenez was forced to make a difficult, wrenching decision. He had committed himself the last week of August to attending the wedding of his nephew Fernando, who was not just a beloved family member but also a promoter of the Andalucian Open, a tournament that is chiefly supported by Jimenez himself. Jimenez chose to bypass the wedding for the Johnnie Walker Championship that week so he could earn points to make the team. He collected enough points at the Johnnie Walker to assure his place, and had Fernando and his new bride as his guests in Wales at Celtic Manor that week.

Europe’s victory over the United States was also Jimenez’s finest showing in the Ryder Cup. Jimenez won two points, one in the fourball paired with Peter Hanson and one in the singles, trouncing the long-hitting Bubba Watson 4 and 3.

Jimenez’s presence on the team was at once inspiring and calming. “It was great to have someone with that sense of calmness, with that experience,” says Germany’s rising star Martin Kaymer. “You just feel good when you are around Miguel.

Everyone does. He’s larger than life and he adds that to everything he does.”

“Miguel is a very competitive player as everyone knows,” says Chubby Chandler. “He also brings the sense of calmness you need in that atmosphere. He won’t get rattled and he won’t let anyone else get rattled. He’s the perfect teammate in every aspect.”

(By the way, just to show that Jimenez isn’t always so calm about things, he broke his putter over his knee on the 15th hole of a European Tour event in Bahrain this year, then went on to make three birdies putting with his lob wedge for a 65.)

The Ryder Cup makes Jimenez tingle. “The most important thing is to be a part of it,” says Jimenez. “I want to win, I want Europe to win, of course. But the most important thing is that the game of golf wins. That is how it should be. It’s all about the game that we love. Nobody loses there. It is the game of golf that wins.”

Tom Lehman, the 2006 Ryder Cup captain, has been around Jimenez mostly in that supercharged setting. As a key player for the United States, and a three-time victor in the pressure-packed position of leadoff singles player, Lehman knows the Ryder Cup cauldron intimately. So he was mightily impressed by what he saw of Jimenez before his singles match against Watson.

“At the Ryder Cup in Wales there was a group of English guys dressed up like him with ponytails. It was the day of the singles and that’s the day that all the players are just hoping not to puke,” says Lehman. “So I’m near them when Miguel comes along and they ask me if I can ask Miguel if he  would take a picture with them. Miguel comes right over, I take a picture with my iPhone and I e-mail it to each of them. Now how many guys would have ever done that in that situation. Miguel really engages the fans.”

And it’s not just what Jimenez does on the course that impresses Lehman. “He’s always the person who will walk across the room to say hello,” says Lehman. “Not just once, but always. That says something about a person.”

It says a lot about a person, a professional golfer, that he would be willing to dig into his own pocket to make sure a golf tournament goes on, and in the proper manner. That is what Jimenez has been doing for the Open de Andalucia.

“I love my country, I love my place and I feel golf is part of the economy of Andalucia and of Malaga,” he says. “I feel that the people of this place deserve a special tournament. This is my fifth year now that I promote, and these are difficult times to get money from the companies. For the last couple of years there hasn’t been that much money from sponsors, so to cover expenses I’ve had to go into my pocket. I am very loyal to what I am doing. I’m doing something for my place.” 

He will always call Malaga home where his teenage sons Miguel Angel and Victor share time with him and their mother, from whom Jimenez is divorced. He doesn’t know if his sons will take up golf seriously and would be pleased if they continued their education in a manner in which he did not. Still, he wants them to determine their own destinies, as he determined his.

Though at a rather advanced age now, he remains determined to be among the world’s best, and to keep his worldly view of life. After the first round of British Open at Turnberry in 2009 in which he led with a 64, the best score of his career, Jimenez was asked what he was thinking. “That it would be nice to have a little whisky,” he replied.

When it comes to golf and to life, Miguel Angel Jimenez will stay thirsty, my friends.

“He has the most-interesting-man-in-the-world look and mentality,” says Tom Lehman. Jeff Williams is a contributing editor for Cigar Aficionado.

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The PGA of Spain has now a new image

The partnership between TUMI, Grupo San Pablo, and the PGA of Spain promises to elevate the Spanish golfing landscape and nurture future talents in the sport.

Today, the Spanish Professional Golfers' Association (PGA) unveiled the new image of the professional circuit TUMI SPAIN GOLF TOUR, sponsored by luxury luggage brand TUMI, at the headquarters of the Consejo Superior de Deportes (CSD), known as 'La Casa del Deporte' (The House of Sports).

TUMI, renowned for its luxurious sport equipment, is the official luggage provider for the PGA Tour and the LPGA Women's Golf Circuit in the United States, and now joins forces with the PGA of Spain for its national professional golf circuit.

Spain, golf

Ander Martínez, president of the PGA, introduced this new phase of the professional circuit, emphasizing its inclusivity for both men and women. He expressed gratitude for the private sponsorship and trust placed in the oldest sports association in Spain, as well as the public support from the CSD in the realm of education and the creation of new avenues for career advancement for golfers.

Ignacio Miranda Álvarez-Pickman, General Director of TUMI, expressed appreciation for the opportunity to participate in this esteemed circuit, echoing Martínez's sentiments. He highlighted TUMI's existing partnerships with the PGA Tour and the LPGA and expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with the PGA of Spain.

Additionally, Grupo San Pablo was announced as the sponsor for two tournaments of the circuit to be held in Madrid and Barcelona. Matías Lizarazu, representing Grupo San Pablo, underscored the company's commitment to sports, citing successful management of sports corporations such as San Pablo Burgos Basketball Club and UBU San Pablo Handball Club.

Lizarazu announced that each tournament of the circuit will feature the Sub-25 Award for the best young player, aimed at nurturing young talent and promoting new golf stars. The event concluded with remarks from Fernando Molinero, Director General of the CSD, highlighting the council's support for sports and its dedication to grassroots golf to foster the emergence of new stars.

Molinero expressed gratitude to TUMI and Grupo San Pablo for their support, emphasizing the importance of private sector involvement in such initiatives. He reiterated the council's commitment to supporting grassroots sports, echoing the sentiment of golf legend Seve Ballesteros in providing opportunities to the younger generation that previous generations did not have.

Matthew Anderson wins 69th ECP Brazil Open

Matthew Anderson used a final-round 69 to capture a one-stroke victory at the 69th ECP Brazil Open. (Gregory Villalobos/PGA TOUR)

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Matthew Anderson carded his third consecutive sub-70 round to win the 69th ECP Brazil Open at the Rio Olympic Golf Course. Anderson was one shot off the lead after 16 holes but rallied to make back-to-back birdies on Nos. 17 and 18 to secure his maiden victory as a professional.

Anderson’s breakthrough win comes after T21 and T3 finishes at the season-opening Bupa Championship at Tulum and the Totalplay Championship at Atlas Country Club. Anderson’s victory vaults him into the No. 1 spot in the Fortinet Cup season-long ranking through three tournaments.

The Mississauga, Ontario native is the first Canadian to win on PGA TOUR Americas and has registered six top-25s since he turned pro last summer. Anderson found success early in his career by winning the 2019 Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship. He was selected for the Golf Canada team in 2021-22 and has been part of the team since.

Prior to turning pro, Anderson came off an impressive finish in his graduate season at the University of San Francisco, earning All-American honors after notching a top-15 finish at the 2023 NCAA Championships. From there, Anderson gained status on PGA TOUR Canada via a fourth-place finish at the PGA TOUR Canada Qualifying Tournament. He finished 50th in the 2023 Fortinet Cup standings to gain membership into the inaugural PGA TOUR Americas season.

Anderson is expected to be in the field at the Diners Club Peru Open, the fourth event of the Latin America Swing, which will be hosted at Los Inkas Golf Club from April 25-28 in Lima, Peru.

About Matthew Anderson (winner/16-under)

Age: 24 Birthplace: Mississauga, Ontario Residence: Phoenix, Arizona College: University of San Francisco Fortinet Cup: First

• Credits his dad for introducing him to golf at a young age, saying that he picked up the game when he was two and started hitting balls in his grandmother’s living room.
• Played his first round on an official golf course at the age of four and played in his first tournament at eight.
• Finished 11 th and earned All-American honors at the 2023 NCAA Championships.
• Travels with friend and fellow PGA TOUR Americas member Johnny Travale during tournament weeks.
• Played hockey for 12 years, shoots the puck left-handed but plays golf right-handed.
• Always carries four tees and his lucky Tito’s ball marker in his pocket when he’s playing.
• Favorite sports team is the Toronto Maple Leafs, favorite athlete is Kobe Bryant.
• Favorite musical artist is Drake, favorite song is “Butterfly Effect” by Travis Scott.

Competition Notes

Course Setup: Par 71/7,162 yards; Cumulative average: 70.380 Weather: Sunny with a high of 80. Wind from the east at 3-8 mph with gusts up to 16 mph.

• Jonathan De Los Reyes set the course record at the Rio Olympic Golf Course after carding a 10-under 61 in the second round of the 69th ECP Brazil Open. De Los Reyes finished T6.
• Holes 12 and 13 were the most challenging holes at Rio Olympic Golf Course; averaging a +.340. Over the course of the weekend, only 45 birdies were made compared to 184 bogeys across the two holes.
• Hole 5 was the lowest scoring hole at the Rio Olympic Golf Course, with a -0.510 scoring average and 166 birdies and 21 eagles carded.
• Anderson is the second player to earn his first professional win on PGA TOUR Americas: Clay Feagler earned his first professional win at the season-opening Bupa Championship at Tulum.
• Rodrigo Lee finished as the low Brazilian after finishing T8 (11-under). Lee is expected to make his second start of the season at the Diners Club Peru Open, and is in the field as an unrestricted sponsor exemption.
• 60 players made the cut at 3-under or better.
• Ivan Camilo Ramirez (T56/1-under) became the first Colombian to make a start and make the cut in a PGA TOUR Americas event.

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The Professional Golf Association (PGA) is a not-for-profit professional sport organization, which is administered by the Professional Golfers Association . The PGA Tour organizes golf tournaments for amateur players throughout the world . The PGA Tour is also the organizer of the major professional tours played by professional men in the U.S. and Canada. Today, the PGA Tour organizes over 35 tournaments every year, which brings tens of thousands of amateur players together to compete for the most prestigious prizes in professional golf . There are lots of benefits for gamers that play on the PGA Tours.

Playing on a PGA Tour allows you to be recognized as an elite player . As a professional tour player, you are considered a member of the greatest staff in your division. A large number of PGA Tour players have made their careers out of playing on tour, including legends like golfer Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, Arnold Palmer, and lots of others. The PGA Tour organizes player camps and tournaments to help develop the skills of its members . When players become better in their games, they will have more success on the PGA Tour , and their names will become well known to sports fans.

The PGA Tour offers a rich pool of contest compared to other major professional sports. The PGA tour provides a large field of possible opponents for amateur players, while the big leagues only provide a single game in broadcast windows each year. Because of this, the PGA Tour attracts a greater number of elite players compared to the NFL, NBA, and MLB.

The PGA Tour boasts a diverse field of competitors. While the PGA Tour primarily features players who play in the U.S., the tournaments are also played all around the world, with players from Europe, Asia, as well as South America makes it into the PGA tour. There are a lot of diverse divisions available on the PGA tour, with each branch consisting of four different regional qualifying events. The PGA tour allows players to advance their career three measures by winning a championship in their first qualification of the year.

Along with the high level of play that you find on tour, there is also the fact that PGA players are generally older than their professional golf counterparts. Because of this, the average age of PGA professionals is a lot higher than that of their fellow professionals. This difference in experience helps to explain why older gamers may perform at such a high level; because, the older players have had more time to properly hone their skills and enhance. When you take into account that the vast majority of PGA pros started playing professionally at a really young age, this helps to describe the amount of skill the PGA tour has to offer.

If you’re looking for a special challenge and a way to escape your comfort zone, the PGA tour is a superb place to start. There are many distinct tournaments offered to choose from, and there are also many different ways to qualify to play in these tournaments. You may be able to play in a PGA tour event without making it to the qualifying tournaments; based on the nature of your competition. Many people don’t understand they can get a PGA scholarship if they win an occasion during their senior year.

While the PGA tour is quite competitive, there’s lots of respect given to players that are considered”elite”. A lot of this has to do with how the PGA tour is made up of very accomplished players that have a wonderful deal of talent. Oftentimes, it doesn’t even matter whether you’re better than the best, because players who are considered”elite” have had a lot of success in their career, which makes them special. When you play at a PGA tour event, it’s easy to become one of these elite players because so many men and women want to be around them.

As you can see, there is a lot to gain by playing golf on the PGA tour. While there are certainly other kinds of sports or activities that you could be involved in, lots of people see the PGA as their top option. With your career, your family, and your private life, it may make a lot of sense that you take this course of action. Even if you aren’t actually playing in an event, there are many advantages that come along with this adventure.

• Acciona Spanish Open
• Estrella Damm NA Andalucía Masters
• Aramco Team Series
• PGA Tour Champions
• Challenge Tour
• Korn Ferry Tour
• PGA Tour Latinoamérica
• Audi quattro Cup
• Ladies European Tour Access Series
• Santander Tour
• Photo galleries
• Masters of Augusta
• The Open Championship
• PGA Championship
• The Chevron Championship
• Women’s US Open
• Women’s British Open
• KPMG Women’s PGA Championship
• Evian Championship

An exciting journey through the conquest of the west by the Armada

Ángel Ayora will become this Thursday the latest Spaniard to debut in a regular tournament of the PGA Tour . The 19-year-old golfer from Marbella will do so through an invitation to the Puerto Rico Open , on the Grand Reserve Golf Club course. The premiere of this promising product from the sensational La Cañada quarry gives us the opportunity to start a fantastic journey through the conquest of the west of Spanish golf.

We have dived here and there to find each and every one of the Spanish golfers who one day played a regular PGA Tour tournament. However, a warning in advance: we would like the list to be definitive and absolute, but we cannot guarantee it. It is impossible to be certain because not even the American circuit itself has records of its entire history. They are all who are, yes, but maybe not all who are. Even so, we can assure you that the journey is worth it.

Before starting the engines, it is necessary to make two clarifications:

– The PGA Tour officially started in August 1968, although it did not receive its current name until 1975. It is the successor to the circuit of the Association of American Professionals whose origin dates back to 1916. The PGA Tour was created after a split of the professionals who were not happy with the way the Tour was run. The previous circuit disappears.

For this report, we consider the PGA Tour from 1968 onwards, among other things because it is practically impossible to find exhaustive and reliable data from before.

– The list only counts the regular tournaments of the PGA Tour. It tries to place in time the first regular tournament of each Spanish golfer, that is, excluding Majors, World Championships or World Cups.

Let’s get to it. According to the Ten Golf list, we insist, which should not be considered absolute (but almost), since 1968 at least one regular PGA Tour tournament has been played by a total of 41 Spanish golfers, so Ayora this Thursday will become number 42 of the Armada. Let’s review all the names in chronological order of their first participation in a regular event found in this search.

1– Ramón Sota . January 1970. He played the Bing Crosby Pro Am. What better way to open this impressive list than in Pebble Beach. He misses the cut. He played more regular PGA Tour tournaments. A legend of Spanish golf. Uncle of Severiano Ballesteros.

2– Manuel de la Torre . March 1970. Greater Jacksonville Open. He misses the cut. Son of Ángel de la Torre, the great pioneer of Spanish golf, first to play a Major in 1920 (British Open). He was one of the most reputable instructors in the United States. He played many PGA Championships and some regular tournaments.

3– Ángel Gallardo . January 1971. Bing Crosby Pro Am. He misses the cut. He also played several regular tournaments in the United States. A globetrotter with victories on practically all continents.

4– Manuel Piñero . November 1973. World Open Championship. He misses the cut. Piñero was invited in 1982 to play three PGA Tour tournaments in Florida, at Bay Hill, Doral and Palm Beach. He got very good results. So much so that with one more cut he would have got the PGA Tour card. He could have asked for an invitation from McCormack, his agent, in fact there were those who suggested it, including his wife, but Manolo preferred to stay on the European Tour. “That wasn’t for me,” he told Ten Golf .

5– Francisco Abreu . November 1973. World Open Championship. Yes, indeed, he travelled with Piñero and both made their regular debut on the PGA Tour in this tournament. He also misses the cut.

6– Valentín Barrios . March 1974. Doral Eastern Open. He misses the cut. Valentín became very friendly with Jack Nicklaus during the construction of La Moraleja and the Golden Bear managed to get him invited to some tournaments. He would play again the following year in Doral.

7– Seve Ballesteros . April 1978. Greater Greensboro Open. It was the Cantabrian’s first regular tournament and the genius, true to his magic, won it. There are no more words, your honour.

8– José María Olazábal . April 1987. Greater Greensboro Open. Of course, the golfer from Hondarribia was going to follow in the footsteps of his great friend Seve. He made his regular tournament debut in this same tournament and made the cut, although he finished far from the lead.

9– Miguel Ángel Martín . August 1988. The International. He finishes in 34th place. The golfer from Huelva played more tournaments on the American circuit and got the card in 1989 after passing the School.

10– Pepín Rivero . August 1988. The International.

11– José María Cañizares . August 1988. The International. Cañi would later have a sensational career on the PGA Tour Champions.

12– Miguel Ángel Jiménez . June 1995. Kemper Open. He makes the cut and finishes in 64th place. He also tried the American route one year, but did not adapt and returned to Europe.

13– Sergio García . May 1999. GTE Byron Nelson Classic. He finishes in third position. Needless to say, he is the Spanish golfer who has played the most PGA Tour tournaments to date.

14– Álex Larrazábal . June 2003. Memorial Tournament. He misses the cut. The older brother of the Larrazábals earned the invitations with his victory in the British Amateur.

15– Nacho Garrido . September 2003. Valero Texas Open. He misses the cut.

16– Gonzalo Fernández Castaño . February 2006. Chrysler Classic of Tucson. He misses the cut.

17– Alejandro Cañizares . February 2007. FBR Open. He finishes in 23rd place. The golfer from Malaga had the PGA Tour card for one year through the School.

18– Pablo Martín Benavides . February 2007. Mayakoba Golf Classic. He plays it still as an amateur. His exceptional university career with Oklahoma State endorses him.

19– José Manuel Lara . February 2007. Mayakoba Golf Classic.

20– Álvaro Quirós . February 2008. Mayakoba Golf Classic. 28th place. That same year he would play the Puerto Rico Open and finish in that same position.

21– Santi Luna . February 2008. Mayakoba Golf Classic. He played this tournament several years.

22– Pablo Larrazábal . March 2009. Mayakoba Golf Classic.

23–  Pedro Oriol . February 2010. Mayakoba Golf Classic.

24– Jorge Campillo . February 2010. Mayakoba Golf Classic.

25– Íñigo Urquizu . February 2011. Mayakoba Golf Classic.

26– Rafa Cabrera Bello . February 2013. AT&T Pebble Beach.

27– Jordi García Pinto . November 2013. Mayakoba Golf Classic.

28– Jon Rahm . November 2014. Mayakoba Golf Classic. Second Spaniard after Pablo Martín to debut as an amateur in a regular PGA Tour tournament. He missed the cut. This is where it all started.

29– Nacho Elvira . November 2015. Mayakoba Golf Classic.

30– Javier Colomo . November 2017. Mayakoba Golf Classic.

31– Adri Arnaus . November 2018. Mayakoba Golf Classic.

32– Eugenio López Chacarra . November 2018. Mayakoba Golf Classic. The third Spaniard to debut in a PGA Tour tournament as an amateur.

33– Santi Tarrio . December 2020. Mayakoba Golf Classic.

34– Samuel del Val . November 2021. Mayakoba Golf Classic.

35– Enrique Marín . November 2022. Mayakoba Golf Classic.

36– Adrián Otaegui . July 2022. Genesis Scottish Open. He started that year as a hybrid tournament between the DP World Tour and the PGA Tour.

37– Carlos Pigem . July 2022. Barbasol Championship. Another hybrid. This one was played in the United States the same week as the Genesis.

38– Alfredo García Heredia . July 2022. Barbasol Championship.

39– Sebastián García Rodríguez . July 2022. Barbasol Championship.

40– Ángel Hidalgo . March 2023. Corales Puntacana.

41– Álex del Rey . July 2023. Barbasol Championship.

42– Ángel Ayora . March 2023. Puerto Rico Open.

Some notes added to the list:

– It is very possible that Ángel de la Torre , Ángel Miguel and Sebastián Miguel played some regular tournament on the American circuit before 1970, although we have not found records. We will continue searching.

– Nor should we rule out that Ramón Sota, Manuel de la Torre or Ángel Gallardo also debuted in that PGA Tour before 1970.

– It is obvious that the Mayakoba Golf Classic is the tournament that has given the most opportunities to Spaniards to make their entry into the PGA Tour. There have debuted no less than 17 Spaniards, more than a third of the total.

PS : Like on television programmes, Ten Golf has a ‘phone for those mentioned’. Anyone, or a relative of anyone, who believes they should be on this list and is not, can contact this house via the email [email protected]. We will be delighted to do justice.

"The Ryder Cup for sure": Jon Rahm's perfect schedule would include LIV Golf, PGA Tour and other events

J on Rahm has openly stated that he misses some PGA Tour events, having gone over to LIV Golf. The Spaniard has now said an ideal schedule for him includes events from both tours and more, giving him a full season of work and a wide variety of locations to visit.

Rahm said in a pre-round interview:

"I don't know. Right now, obviously, 14 LIV events that I want to play. So that, majors, Ryder Cup, for sure, and then after that, there's some PGA tour event if not come into my LIV schedule, I'll go to play. I have said it numerous time and I'll say it again, Tory Pines, Phoenix, LA, if allowed to play Players, if I could, I would like to play."

He stated that he's not unfamiliar with playing 24 events in one year, especially with the PGA Tour and DP World Tour schedule. He also wants to play in his home country of Spain, whether that's the Spanish Open or something else.

"That's just what I want to do. If they given me the opportunity, I'll try play as many as I can. So I still want to perform at the right time and perform in the right tournaments," he admitted.

The world number four golfer is slated to play the Adelaide event for LIV Golf this weekend, and he said he's quite excited about it. He understands now why his counterparts have raved about the golf course.

"If we don't get a lot of wind or any rain, which it doesn't look like it, it can get really firm and fast and make it a really entertaining event. Not only for us but for everybody watching."

The golfer said he misses playing the Players Championship and that there were plenty of PGA Tour venues he miss visiting. He also admitted to being disappointed in his inability to defend some crowns.

There's no telling what the future holds for the sport of golf, but Rahm's ideal future includes both tours that he can play on.

Greg Norman excited to bring Jon Rahm to Australia

Greg Norman is from Australia, so the Adelaide tournament is personal for him. He wanted to get major professional golf to a country that has otherwise not had it.

In a pre-round interview, the LIV CEO revealed:

"I knew the value of Australia, what Australia can represent to the game of golf and what Australia lacked ... the fans spoke in droves last year. They continue to speak this year."

He's particularly excited this year about bringing someone of Jon Rahm's caliber to the tournament, as Rahm wasn't on tour this time last year.

"To be able to bring the quality of Jon Rahm plus 53 other guys down here for Australians to experience was meaningful for me because, when I came down here, it was my mission every year as a player to bring back my skills to show Australia, to grow Australian golf the best way I possibly could."

He finished by saying that what Jon Rahm did then was as one player with a bag of clubs, but what he's doing now is bigger and more impactful as the lead of a golf tour.