Chi Chi Rodriguez has passed away at 88.
Starting from a modest background, he rose to fame on the PGA Tour. His first win was at the 1963 Denver Open, and he later won two senior Majors.
He learned golf in Puerto Rico using guava tree sticks as clubs and tin cans as balls while helping his father in sugar cane fields. After serving in the US Army from 1955-1957, he turned pro in 1960.
Rodriguez also claimed victories at the Texas Open and Greater Greensboro Open (now Wyndham Championship). Post-50, he dominated the PGA Tour Champions with 22 wins and topped the money list in 1987.
Chi Chi’s Legacy:
His first senior win came at the Senior Players Championship, with his biggest victory being the 1987 Senior PGA Championship at PGA National Resort. Known for his lively personality, Rodriguez entertained fans with his ‘sword dance’ celebration and catchy quotes.
“The first time I played in the Masters, I was so nervous I drank a bottle of rum before I teed off. I shot the happiest 83 of my life,” he once shared about his debut Masters appearance.
Fans might think it’s sad to lose such a vibrant character who brought joy to many. Rodriguez finished top-10 twice at Augusta and had his best Major finish with a T6 at the 1981 US Open. He also played on the victorious 1973 US Ryder Cup team against GB&I at Muirfield.
Beyond golf, Rodriguez made significant contributions through philanthropy by founding the Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation in Florida to help at-risk youth succeed academically and socially .
Happy Birthday, Chi Chi Rodriguez!
His dance moves, his game 💯
— PGA TOUR Champions (@ChampionsTour)
In recognition of his achievements, he received numerous honors including induction into both World Golf Hall of Fame (1992) and World Humanitarian Sports Hall of Fame (1994), plus receiving the Bob Jones Award in 1989 – USGA’s highest honor.
“A vibrant personality both on and off course,” said PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan. “He will be missed dearly by those whose lives he touched.”
A gifted player, entertainer and humanitarian, World Golf Hall of Famer Juan "Chi Chi" Rodriguez of Puerto Rico died on Thursday at 88.
A 30x @PGATOUR and @ChampionsTour winner, he played on the victorious 1973 @RyderCupUSA team and received the 1989 @USGA Bob Jones Award.
— Golf Hall of Fame (@GolfHallofFame)
What do you think about Chi Chi’s incredible journey?
