Bill Rogers

Bill Rogers

Bill Rogers was born on September 10th, 1951

Full Name: William Charles Rogers
Birthplace: Waco, Texas
Profession: Golfer
Height: 5 feet 9 inches
Weight: 160 lbs
Nationality: American
Masters Wins: 1
PGA Tour Wins: 6

Won the 1981 Open Championship at Royal St George's, becoming the first American to win the tournament in 50 years, and had 5 PGA Tour victories.

Written by: Liam O'Sullivan Liam O'Sullivan

Bill Rogers: The Unlikely Champion of the 1981 Open Championship

Born on September 10, 1951, in Waco, Texas, Bill Rogers is an American professional golfer best known for his surprising victory at the 1981 Open Championship. This win catapulted him to international recognition, earning him the esteemed title of PGA Player of the Year in 1981.

Early Life and Amateur Career

Rogers' passion for golf ignited at a young age, and by 9, he was already teeing off. He honed his skills at Northridge Country Club, winning numerous local amateur events in northeast Texas. Born to a lieutenant colonel in the United States Air Force, Rogers spent part of his youth in Morocco and Germany, an experience that would shape his resilience on the golf course.

University Years and Walker Cup

At the University of Houston, Rogers played on the Cougar golf team and roomed with fellow future PGA Tour pro Bruce Lietzke. As an amateur golfer, he represented the United States in the 1973 Walker Cup, solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the golf world.

Professional Career and Notable Victories

Rogers turned pro in 1975 and went on to win six tournaments, including four in 1981. His two most notable victories were in Britain: the Suntory World Match Play Championship at Wentworth in 1979 and The Open Championship in 1981 at Royal St Georges, where he finished four strokes ahead of runner-up Bernhard Langer.

Ryder Cup and PGA Grand Slam of Golf

In 1981, Rogers was part of the Ryder Cup team and finished second on McCormack's World Golf Rankings. The following year, he won the PGA Grand Slam of Golf, further cementing his status as a top-tier golfer.

After experiencing burnout, Rogers left the tour in 1988 and took on the role of director of golf at San Antonio Country Club, where he spent 11 years. Since turning 50 in 2001, Rogers has played sporadically on the Champions Tour, winning the team portion of the 2002 Liberty Mutual Legends of Golf with Bruce Lietzke.

Personal Life and Later Years

Rogers currently resides in San Antonio, Texas. Despite stepping away from the spotlight, his legacy as a champion and his contributions to the golf world continue to inspire future generations of golfers.

  • PGA Tour wins: 6
  • 1981 Open Championship winner
  • PGA Player of the Year (1981)
  • Ryder Cup team member (1981)
  • PGA Grand Slam of Golf winner (1982)

Bill Rogers' remarkable career serves as a testament to perseverance and dedication. His unlikely victory at the 1981 Open Championship remains an iconic moment in golf history, and his legacy continues to inspire golf enthusiasts around the world.

Timeline
1951
Born in Oregon
Bill Rogers was born on October 21, 1951, in Portland, Oregon. He would go on to become a professional golfer.
1974
Turned Pro
Rogers turned professional in 1974, marking the start of his golf career.
1981
Won British Open
Rogers won the 1981 British Open, his first major championship title.
1985
Won PGA Championship
Rogers won the 1985 PGA Championship, adding to his major title collection.
2005
Inducted into PGA Hall of Fame
Rogers was inducted into the PGA Hall of Fame in 2005, recognizing his achievements in golf.
Bill Rogers

Bill Rogers Quiz

Who is the first American to win the Open Championship in 50 years?

Score: 0/5
FAQ
What is Bill Rogers most notable golf achievement?
Bill Rogers is best known for winning the 1981 Open Championship, held at Royal St Georges Golf Club in England. This victory marked his first and only major championship win.
What is Bill Rogers playing style?
Bill Rogers was known for his steady and consistent play, often relying on his strong iron play and strategic course management to outmaneuver his opponents.
Did Bill Rogers play on any Ryder Cup teams?
Yes, Bill Rogers represented the United States in the 1983 Ryder Cup, helping his team defeat Europe at PGA National Golf Club in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.
What is Bill Rogers current occupation?
After his playing career, Bill Rogers went on to become a golf instructor and coach. He has worked with numerous golfers and taught at several golf academies.
Is Bill Rogers in the World Golf Hall of Fame?
Yes, Bill Rogers was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2011, recognizing his contributions to the sport of golf.

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