A pioneering athlete who excelled in multiple sports, including golf, and won numerous championships, earning him the title of "World's Greatest Athlete" in 1912.
Jim Thorpe, born on February 1, 1949, is an American retired professional golfer who made a name for himself on the PGA Tour and Champions Tour. Known for his impressive wins and equally impressive comeback stories, Thorpe's career has been a rollercoaster of triumphs and tribulations.
Thorpe turned professional in 1972 and went on to win three times on the PGA Tour in the mid-1980s. However, it was his success on the senior tour that truly cemented his legacy, with over ten wins, including one senior major championship, the 2002 Tradition. His top-ten finish in the Champions Tour's career money list in 2004 solidified his position as a force to be reckoned with in the golf world.
In 2009, Thorpe pleaded guilty to charges of failing to pay $1.6 million in taxes between 2002 and 2004. The scandal led to a one-year prison sentence, which he served from 2010 to 2011. However, upon his release, Thorpe wasted no time in getting back to his golf game, resuming his career on the Champions Tour in 2011.
| Tournament | Year | Result |
|---|---|---|
| The Masters Tournament | 1974, 1984 | CUT |
| U.S. Open | 1975, 1984 | CUT |
| The Open Championship | 1975, 1985 | CUT |
| PGA Championship | 1974, 1984 | CUT |
Despite the setbacks, Thorpe's legacy in the golf world remains untainted. His determination and perseverance in the face of adversity have earned him a reputation as a true champion. His story serves as a testament to the power of redemption and the importance of never giving up on one's passion.
Thorpe was born the ninth of twelve children to a fairway superintendent and attended Morgan State University. His personal life has been marked by both triumph and tragedy, but his love for the game has always remained constant.
Thorpe's story is one of redemption and second chances. From the highs of his golfing triumphs to the lows of his tax scandal, Thorpe has shown that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for a comeback. His courage and determination serve as a beacon of inspiration to golf enthusiasts and non-golfers alike.
Born in 1888
Legendary coach who led Notre Dame to numerous championships and revolutionized the game with his innovative strategies, earning him a lasting legacy in American football history.
Born in 1862
Pioneering baseball coach and player who introduced numerous innovations to the sport, including the concept of the linebacker position in football. He coached for 71 years, setting a record for longest coaching tenure.
Born in 1913
A legendary athlete who shattered records and racial barriers at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, winning four gold medals in the 100m, 200m, 4x100m relay, and long jump events.
Born in 1903
The "Iron Horse" was a dominant force in baseball, playing in a record 2,130 consecutive games, earning him the nickname for his durability and impressive career statistics. He's an iconic figure in American sports history.
Born in 1902
A legendary golfer who founded the Masters Tournament and is celebrated for his incredible career, including 13 major championships. He's also a skilled lawyer who practiced in Atlanta.
