Today, Rory McIlroy is a global ambassador for golf and remains one of the sport’s biggest stars. With a career that includes multiple major victories and extended stints as World No. 1, his place in golf history is already secure.
Pictures of 25 Golfers Then and Now
Published 1 day ago• 24 minute read
Tiger Woods exploded onto the golf scene as a child prodigy. After winning three consecutive U.S. Amateur Championships, he turned pro in 1996 and immediately gained attention by declaring, “Hello, world.” Shortly after, in 1997, he won his first major, the Masters, by a record margin at just 21 years old.
Tiger’s power, precision, and mental toughness introduced a physicality and intensity that golf had rarely seen. By the early 2000s, he already dominated leaderboards, stacking up major wins and becoming a global icon.
Today, Tiger Woods is still one of golf’s biggest names. Despite enduring serious injuries, including a near-fatal car accident in 2021, he made an awe-inspiring return at the 2022 Masters, where he made the cut despite his physical challenges.
Although competition is no longer his full-time focus, his influence remains unmatched. With 82 PGA Tour wins and 15 major titles, he’s widely regarded as one of the greatest golfers in history. Off the green, his TGR Foundation focuses on education, ensuring that his legacy extends far beyond the fairways.
Rory McIlroy burst onto the golf scene as a teenage prodigy from Northern Ireland. By the time he turned pro in 2007, he was already being hailed as one of the most exciting young talents in the sport. McIlroy’s first major triumph came in 2011 at the U.S. Open, where he displayed his aggressive style and incredible ball-striking to break tournament records.
He quickly added The Open Championship and two PGA Championship wins to his résumé by 2014, earning him a place among golf’s elite and cementing his “once-in-a-generation” talent.
While recent years have been marked by near-misses in majors, McIlroy has continued to dominate on the PGA and European Tours, adding numerous titles to his name. Off the course, he’s become an influential voice in the game, championing its traditions and growth. His blend of skill, charisma, and dedication ensures that his legacy will endure for generations to come.
Jordan Spieth’s rise in the golfing world was nothing short of meteoric. A Texas native with a natural talent for the game, he turned pro in 2012 and made an immediate impact. By 2015, Spieth achieved one of the most memorable seasons in golf history, winning the Masters and U.S. Open, and coming close to completing the Grand Slam.
His putting under pressure and short-game creativity made him a standout player. Spieth’s calm, humble personality combined with his competitive fire captivated fans, while his breakout performances cemented his reputation as one of the sport’s brightest young stars.
Though Jordan Spieth faced challenges after his peak years, including a prolonged win drought, he showed resilience and determination to reclaim his form. His comeback win at the 2021 Valero Texas Open reminded the golf world of his talent and mental toughness. Spieth remains competitive in majors and continues to deliver highlight-reel moments, often thrilling crowds with his bold shot-making.
He’s known as a family man and a dedicated philanthropist through the Jordan Spieth Family Foundation. His legacy as a player who inspired a new generation is already secure, and he continues to compete at an elite level.
Dustin Johnson’s entry into professional golf in 2007 was marked by his towering drives and calm demeanor. His natural athleticism and raw power quickly set him apart, earning him his first PGA Tour win in 2008. Over the years, Johnson became known for his cool-under-pressure attitude and ability to succeed in a variety of conditions.
His signature moment came at the 2016 U.S. Open, where he overcame controversy and nerves to claim his first major title. A consistent performer, he regularly found himself in contention, solidifying his place as one of the sport’s most dependable players.
Today, Dustin Johnson is regarded as a modern golf icon. With two major championships, including the 2020 Masters, and countless PGA Tour wins, his career résumé speaks for itself. Johnson’s ability to adapt to the evolving game has kept him competitive, and he continues to be a dominant figure in global golf.
He's ventured into other golfing ventures while maintaining a balance with his life as a family man. His legacy as one of the game’s most gifted and composed athletes endures, inspiring both peers and fans alike.
Brooks Koepka's rise to prominence began with his relentless determination and a path less traveled. After starting his professional career on the European Challenge Tour, his hard work paid off when he earned his PGA Tour card in 2014.
Koepka quickly made a name for himself by winning four major championships between 2017 and 2019, including back-to-back titles at both the U.S. Open and the PGA Championship. His ability to stay calm under pressure and dominate on the biggest stages showcased his status as a new force in modern golf.
Today, Brooks Koepka remains a fierce competitor and a major contender in golf. After overcoming injuries that tested his resilience, he’s made a strong comeback and added more victories to his résumé. Koepka has become known for his intimidating confidence and mental toughness, which often give him an edge in high-stakes tournaments.
His move to the LIV Golf Tour stirred discussions about the evolving golf landscape, but Koepka made a strong statement by winning the 2023 PGA Championship, proving he still thrives in major championships. With his legacy already impressive, Koepka continues to solidify his place among golf’s elite.
Jon Rahm began making waves in golf during his college years at Arizona State University, where he became one of the most dominant players in NCAA history. Originally from Spain, Rahm quickly earned a reputation for his fiery passion on the course and powerful swing.
After turning pro in 2016, he didn’t waste any time proving himself, winning his first PGA Tour event at the 2017 Farmers Insurance Open. Rahm gained recognition as a force to be reckoned with, climbing the world rankings at a rapid pace.
Today, Jon Rahm stands as one of the top players in professional golf. He won his first major title at the 2021 U.S. Open, where his clutch putting sealed a remarkable victory. Rahm’s mix of power, precision, and passion continues to drive his success, and he has consistently maintained his position near the top of the Official World Golf Ranking.
Beyond the course, Rahm is celebrated for his balanced demeanor and dedication to his family. With numerous PGA Tour and European Tour wins under his belt, he remains a leading figure in the sport, inspiring fans and aspiring golfers worldwide.
Justin Thomas burst onto the golf scene as one of the most promising young talents of his generation. A Kentucky native, Thomas shone during his college years at the University of Alabama, where he won the Haskins Award as the most outstanding collegiate golfer.
Turning professional in 2013, his career quickly gained momentum, with his breakout season coming in 2017. That year, he earned five PGA Tour wins, including his first major championship at the PGA Championship. Known for his explosive drives, sharp irons, and energetic personality, Thomas quickly carved out a place among golf’s elite.
Now a perennial force on the PGA Tour, Justin Thomas continues to add to his impressive résumé. With multiple major wins and a Players Championship trophy in his collection, he’s among the game’s most consistent competitors. His fiery competitiveness and ability to perform under pressure have made him a fan favorite.
Thomas is also known for his philanthropic work and close friendships with fellow players, adding to his likability. Whether contending for titles or bringing energy to the game, Thomas’ legacy as one of golf’s most dynamic players remains firmly intact.
Phil Mickelson, often called “Lefty,” entered the golfing world as a standout talent long before turning pro. A California native, he won his first PGA Tour event as an amateur in 1991, showcasing incredible potential. His fearless approach to attacking pins and unmatched short game set him apart early in his career.
Fans were drawn to his creative shot-making and ability to pull off the seemingly impossible. Over the years, Mickelson became a household name, known for his thrilling performances in major championships, even before finally breaking through to win his first, the Masters, in 2004.
Phil Mickelson remains a legendary figure in golf, even as his career has evolved. At the age of 50, he defied the odds by becoming the oldest player to win a major, capturing the 2021 PGA Championship in a memorable performance. Though now competing on the LIV Golf circuit, Mickelson continues to draw attention with his vibrant personality and ability to entertain crowds.
Mickelson's known for his philanthropy and engaging presence in the media. Mickelson’s legacy is one of resilience, creativity, and a lasting impact on the game, inspiring both seasoned golf fans and young players alike.
Bryson DeChambeau broke into the professional golf scene in 2016 already standing out as a unique talent. A native of California, he earned the nickname "The Scientist" for his analytical approach to the game. From using same-length irons to meticulously calculating the physics behind each shot, his methods were anything but traditional.
His unconventional style paid off, with an early highlight being his U.S. Amateur win in 2015, followed by a victory at the 2017 John Deere Classic. DeChambeau quickly gained a reputation for his bold strategies and willingness to challenge conventional wisdom in pursuit of success.
Today, Bryson DeChambeau continues to make waves in the golf world with his power-driven approach. Known for pushing the boundaries of athleticism, he transformed his game with a remarkable physical transformation, adding muscle and increasing his driving distance dramatically. This led to a career milestone in 2020, when he captured his first major at the U.S. Open in dominating fashion.
Now competing on the LIV Golf circuit, DeChambeau remains a polarizing yet thrilling presence on the course. His innovative mindset and dedication to redefining the game’s limits ensure his name will be remembered as a trailblazer in modern golf.
Jack Nicklaus, famously dubbed "The Golden Bear," emerged as a dominant force in golf during the 1960s. A native of Ohio, he burst onto the scene with his powerhouse game, excelling with both precision and distance. Nicklaus turned professional in 1961 and quickly achieved his first major victory at the 1962 U.S. Open, defeating the legendary Arnold Palmer in an unforgettable playoff.
Known for his calm demeanor and clutch performances, he amassed a record 18 major championship wins over his career. Nicklaus set the gold standard for competitive golf during his prime.
Though retired from competitive golfing, Jack Nicklaus remains deeply involved in the sport. He’s a highly respected course designer, crafting some of the world’s most renowned golf courses through his company, Nicklaus Design. Now, Nicklaus dedicates much of his time to philanthropy, particularly through the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation.
He frequently appears at tournaments and in the media, sharing stories and insights, keeping his presence alive in the golfing world. Revered as the greatest golfer in history, Nicklaus continues to inspire future generations with his incredible legacy of excellence, sportsmanship, and contributions to the game.
Hideki Matsuyama made his mark on the golfing world as a young and promising talent from Japan. His breakout moment came in 2010 when he won the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship, which earned him a spot at the 2011 Masters Tournament as an amateur.
Impressively, he ended as the tournament’s low amateur, signaling his potential on golf’s biggest stages. Known for his precise ball-striking and composed demeanor, Matsuyama turned professional in 2013 and quickly proved his abilities with wins on both the Japan Golf Tour and the PGA Tour. His consistent performances made him one of the strongest international players on tour.
Today, Hideki Matsuyama is celebrated as the first Japanese player to win a men’s major championship. His historic victory at the 2021 Masters Tournament cemented his place in golf history and elevated his status as a global sports icon. Still active on the PGA Tour, Matsuyama is known for his steady play and remarkable short game.
While balancing the demands of an international career, he continues to inspire aspiring golfers from Japan and beyond. Matsuyama remains a leading figure in professional golf and a source of pride for his homeland.
Patrick Reed began his professional golf career in 2011, quickly gaining recognition for his competitive spirit and strong play. A standout at Augusta State University, he contributed to back-to-back national championships before turning pro.
Reed earned his first PGA Tour victory in 2013 at the Wyndham Championship. He gained the nickname "Captain America" for his Ryder Cup performances, where his passion and clutch play stood out. Early in his career, Reed established himself as a player who thrived in high-stakes situations.
Patrick Reed remains a distinctive figure in professional golf, known for his resilience and determination. A major career highlight came in 2018 when he claimed his first major title by winning the Masters Tournament. Reed’s consistent performances on the PGA Tour and his presence in international team events have solidified his reputation as a formidable competitor.
Currently competing on the LIV Golf circuit, he continues to perform at a high level, often finding himself in the mix in big tournaments. Reed’s legacy lies in his grit, intense focus, and ability to shine when the spotlight is brightest.
Xander Schauffele burst onto the professional golf scene in 2015, quickly establishing himself as a rising talent. A California native, he gained attention with his impressive amateur career and standout performances during his college years at San Diego State University.
Schauffele’s breakthrough moment came in 2017, when he won the Greenbrier Classic, followed by a victory at the Tour Championship. He became a consistent contender in major tournaments, earning a reputation as a player who could compete with the best. His early career laid the foundation for a promising future.
Today, Xander Schauffele is recognized as one of the most consistent players on the PGA Tour. A regular feature in the world’s top rankings, he’s celebrated for his precision and mental toughness. Highlights like his gold medal performance at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics further cemented his place among golf’s elite.
Schauffele remains a major threat in any event, regularly finishing near the top of leaderboards and competing in Ryder and Presidents Cup teams. He continues to build a legacy of excellence and remains a fan favorite for his approachable personality and sharp skills.
Cameron Smith emerged as one of Australia’s most promising golf talents with a calm demeanor and impeccable short game. He turned professional in 2013 and gained traction on the international stage with consistent performances on the PGA Tour of Australasia.
Smith’s breakthrough came in 2017 when he partnered with Jonas Blixt to win the Zurich Classic of New Orleans, marking his first PGA Tour victory. His precision around the greens and steady play quickly earned him a reputation as a fierce competitor, setting the stage for an impressive career. Fans appreciated his quiet determination.
Cameron Smith has cemented his place as one of golf's elite players. His defining moment came when he captured the 2022 Open Championship, showcasing his composure and phenomenal putting under pressure. Smith made waves by joining the LIV Golf circuit, where his consistency and natural brilliance continue to shine.
With multiple wins across different tours, he’s become a symbol of Australian resilience and talent on the international stage. Beyond his on-course success, Smith’s approachable personality and unmistakable mullet have made him a favorite among fans.
Viktor Hovland, a Norwegian phenom, grabbed attention with his dazzling amateur career. A standout player at Oklahoma State University, he shined in collegiate golf and made waves by winning the 2018 U.S. Amateur Championship. His composed demeanor and sharp ball-striking made him a player to watch.
Hovland turned professional in 2019 and wasted no time proving his mettle. He earned his first PGA Tour win at the Puerto Rico Open in 2020, showcasing his cool mindset and consistent game.
Today, Viktor Hovland is cemented as one of the brightest stars in golf. Competing successfully on the PGA Tour and European Tour, he has added several victories to his resume, including a commanding win at the BMW Championship. Hovland continues to refine his skills and thrive in high-pressure events.
His remarkable play secured him a spot in international competitions like the Ryder Cup, where he represents Europe with pride. With his approachable personality, work ethic, and impressive results, Hovland is not just a rising star but a defining figure in professional golf’s next generation.
Tony Finau entered professional golf as a raw, powerful talent with a swing that turned heads. After making his way onto the PGA Tour in 2015, he quickly showcased his potential with remarkable consistency and big drives that became his signature style.
Finau’s first win came at the Puerto Rico Open in 2016, solidifying his place as a rising star. Known for his athleticism and humble demeanor, he gained fans across the golf world. Early in his career, Finau’s ability to perform under pressure in high-profile events hinted at the bright future waiting for him.
Today, Tony Finau is a household name in professional golf, celebrated for his resilience and skill. With multiple PGA Tour victories, including a dominant 2022 season, he has proven himself as one of the game’s elite competitors. His calm focus during major championships and team events, such as the Ryder Cup, has earned him respect on and off the course.
Beyond his achievements, Finau is admired for his dedication to family and his impact as a role model, and he continues to inspire fans and competitors alike.
Rickie Fowler burst onto the golf scene with a vibrant personality and a flair for style, turning heads with his bold outfits and flat-brimmed hats. After a stellar amateur career, including being the world’s top-ranked amateur golfer for 36 weeks, he turned professional in 2009.
Fowler quickly gained attention for his fearless play and remarkable consistency, earning his first PGA Tour win at the 2012 Wells Fargo Championship. His dynamic swing and calm demeanor made him a fan favorite, while his performances in high-pressure situations showed his immense potential as one of golf’s newest stars.
Fast forward to today, Rickie Fowler is a seasoned veteran admired for his resilience and enduring passion for the game. Despite facing a challenging stretch in his career, he regained form in 2023 with an emotional victory at the Rocket Mortgage Classic, his first win in over four years.
Fowler remains a key figure in team events, representing the U.S. in the Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup. Beyond his achievements on the course, he’s celebrated for his sportsmanship and contributions to growing the game. With his renewed confidence and competitive spirit, Fowler continues to leave a lasting mark in golf.
Matt Fitzpatrick made a name for himself as a young golfing prodigy from Sheffield, England. He shot to fame after winning the 2013 U.S. Amateur Championship, becoming just the second Englishman to achieve this feat. Known for his precision and sharp short game, Fitzpatrick turned professional in 2014 and quickly began competing on the European and PGA Tours.
His first professional win came in 2015 at the British Masters, showcasing his remarkable ability to thrive under pressure. Fitzpatrick established himself as one of the brightest talents in the game early on.
Today, Matt Fitzpatrick has solidified his place among the elite in golf. His career reached new heights with his 2022 U.S. Open victory, a defining moment that cemented his status as a major champion. Renowned for his strategic play and relentless work ethic, Fitzpatrick continues to deliver consistent performances on both the PGA and European Tours.
His recent successes have earned him spots in Ryder Cup competitions, where he represents Europe with pride and determination. Off the course, Fitzpatrick is admired for his humility and focus, leaving a legacy as a true competitor and ambassador for the sport.
Shane Lowry burst onto the golf scene in 2009 with a stunning win at the Irish Open as an amateur, a rare and remarkable feat that instantly put him on the radar. Known for his gritty determination and natural talent, the Irishman turned professional soon after and began making a name for himself on the European Tour.
Lowry’s consistent play, combined with his charming personality, quickly earned him a loyal fan base. His breakthrough moment came in 2015 when he claimed the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational, showcasing his ability to thrive on the biggest stages.
Today, Shane Lowry is celebrated as one of Ireland’s greatest golfers, with a career-defining moment coming in 2019 when he won The Open Championship at Royal Portrush in front of an electrified home crowd. The victory solidified his place among the sport’s elite and earned him global recognition.
Lowry remains a consistent performer on both the PGA and DP World Tours, representing Europe in the Ryder Cup with passion and pride. Beloved for his approachable demeanor and sportsmanship, he continues to inspire fans while leaving a legacy as a fierce competitor and true ambassador of the game.
Tommy Fleetwood, hailing from Southport, England, showcased his golfing talent early on, winning the 2010 English Amateur Championship. Turning professional in 2010, he steadily climbed the ranks thanks to his smooth swing and calm demeanor under pressure.
Fleetwood’s first European Tour win came in 2013 at the Johnnie Walker Championship, marking the beginning of a solid career. He gained attention for his strong finishes in high-profile events and his endearing personality, which made him a fan favorite on both sides of the Atlantic.
Now a key fixture in global golf, Tommy Fleetwood continues to solidify his reputation as one of the sport's most consistent performers. He has been a standout in Ryder Cup competitions, where his passion and teamwork have sparked memorable moments.
Recently, Fleetwood has added several top finishes to his résumé, including a thrilling playoff win at the 2023 Nedbank Golf Challenge. Beyond his success on the course, he’s admired for his sportsmanship and role as a father and leader. With his skill and charm, Fleetwood is leaving an indelible mark on the golfing world.
Tom Watson emerged as one of golf’s greatest talents in the 1970s, with his fearless approach and impeccable short game. Born in Kansas City, Missouri, Watson burst onto the scene by claiming his first PGA Tour victory in 1974. He solidified his place in golf history by winning eight major championships, including five Open Championships, showcasing his skill on links courses.
Known for his steady nerves and unmatched determination, Watson earned admiration for taking risks that often paid off. By the 1980s, he was a dominant force, cementing his legacy as a player who thrived in the biggest moments.
Today, Tom Watson is revered as one of golf’s elder statesmen, admired for his remarkable career and contributions to the sport. Though retired from active competition, he left fans in awe during the 2009 Open Championship, where, at age 59, he narrowly missed out on a historic victory.
Watson has since focused on mentoring younger players and participating in charity work, spreading his passion for the game. His legacy as a champion and a gentleman of the sport remains intact, with fans remembering him not just for his wins but for the grace and sportsmanship he brought to every round.
Scottie Scheffler showed great promise from a young age, making waves in junior and amateur golf circuits with his steady composure and natural skill. Born in Ridgewood, New Jersey, and raised in Texas, Scheffler played collegiate golf at the University of Texas, where he further honed his game.
Among many accolades, he won the 2013 U.S. Junior Amateur Championship, signaling a bright future. Upon turning pro in 2018, his calm demeanor and consistent play set him apart, earning him a spot on the PGA Tour and recognition as a rising star in the sport.
Today, Scottie Scheffler is one of golf’s top players, claiming multiple PGA Tour victories, including a monumental win at the 2022 Masters Tournament, which solidified his place in the sport’s elite. Known for his unshakeable focus and adaptability, he has consistently been a force in major championships and team events like the Ryder Cup.
Scheffler is admired for his humility and down-to-earth personality. With a steady climb up the world rankings and a reputation as one of the most well-rounded players, Scheffler is building a legacy as a champion golfer and role model.
Sergio Garcia, born in Castellón, Spain, burst onto the golfing stage as a teenage sensation. Turning professional in 1999, he quickly gained recognition for his dynamic playing style and flair on the course. His fearless approach, combined with a fantastic short game, led to multiple European Tour and PGA Tour victories early in his career.
Garcia’s runner-up finish at the 1999 PGA Championship as a 19-year-old solidified his reputation as a future star. Known for his charisma and fiery passion, he became a fan favorite, earning the nickname “El Niño” for his youthful energy and exuberance.
Now a seasoned veteran, Sergio Garcia has firmly established himself as one of golf’s greats. His crowning achievement came in 2017, when he captured his first major title at the Masters Tournament, an emotional victory that ended years of near-misses.
Garcia has also been a standout in Ryder Cup competition, with a record number of points earned for Team Europe. While focusing on family and selective tournaments today, he remains a beloved figure in the golfing community. Known for his resilience and love for the game, Sergio’s legacy is one of perseverance and passion for the sport.
Adam Scott, hailing from Australia, began his professional golf career in 2000 and quickly gained attention for his textbook-perfect swing and calm demeanor. He notched his first European Tour win in 2001 before breaking through on the PGA Tour in 2003 at the Deutsche Bank Championship.
Known for his clean ball striking and consistent play, Scott’s early career was highlighted by multiple victories across both tours. By the late 2000s, he was a top contender, showing his immense potential in major championships and earning a reputation as one of the most technically skilled players on the circuit.
Adam Scott cemented his legacy in 2013 with a landmark victory at the Masters Tournament, becoming the first Australian to don the green jacket. Known for his timeless swing and steady presence, Scott has continued to perform at an elite level, securing top finishes and maintaining a spot among golf’s best.
Though he plays a more selective schedule these days, he remains a consistent threat in major tournaments. Off the course, Scott is recognized for his sportsmanship and humility, leaving behind a legacy as a champion and a model of professionalism in the game of golf.
Jason Day, born in Beaudesert, Australia, showed immense promise from a young age, quickly rising through the junior golf ranks. After turning professional in 2006, his talent was undeniable as he steadily climbed the PGA Tour ladder. Day’s extraordinary work ethic and sharp short game earned him his first PGA Tour victory in 2010 at the HP Byron Nelson Championship.
By 2015, he hit career highs, including winning his first major at the PGA Championship and claiming multiple tournament victories in a single season, thanks to his aggressive style and pinpoint accuracy.
Today, Jason Day continues to be a force in professional golf. After battling injuries and personal challenges, he made an inspiring resurgence by securing a long-awaited PGA Tour win in 2023 at the AT&T Byron Nelson. Known for his mental toughness and adaptability, Day has solidified his place among the sport's elite.
Balancing a selective tournament schedule with raising a family, he remains a beloved figure in the golfing community. With his resilience and passion, Jason Day has created a legacy of perseverance, reminding fans of the rewards that come with determination and an unyielding love for the game.
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