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Golf world pays tribute to legend Tom Weiskopf, dies aged 79

The golf world has paid tribute to the legendary Tom Weiskopf who sadly passed away at the age of 79 on Saturday in Big Sky, Montana where he lived.

He died of pancreatic cancer which he was diagnosed with in December 2020. Weiskopf had a fantastic career on the PGA Tour which began in 1968 when he won the Andy Williams-San Diego Open Invitational.

Weiskopf won 16 times on the PGA Tour and in 1973, he won The Open Championship at Troon. He also won the US Senior Open Championship in 1995.

He played in two Ryder Cups for Team USA, winning in 1973 and 1975. He was part of the game’s greatest era competing alongside the likes of Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, Arnold Palmer and Gary Player.

Weiskopf began course design work with Jay Morrish initially but then branched out on his own. He has designed/co-designed the likes of Loch Lomond, Troon North Golf Club, the Olympic Club and Quail Hollow.

“Our hearts and deepest sympathies are with his wife, Laurie, two children, Heidi and Eric, and the entire Weiskopf family,” said PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan, who could be overseeing a major shake-up on the Tour in the near future. .

“The PGA Tour is saddened at the passing of Tom Weiskopf, a towering figure in the game of golf not only during his playing career but through his accomplished work in the broadcast booth and golf course design business.

“Tom is leaving behind a lasting legacy in golf. The beautiful swing he showcased during his 16 career PGA Tour victories is still being emulated today, while his golf courses remain as testaments to his love for the game.”