Hal Sutton, born on April 28, 1958, in Shreveport, Louisiana, is a distinguished American professional golfer known for his impressive achievements on the PGA Tour. A graduate of Centenary College in his hometown, Sutton’s amateur career was highlighted by numerous individual and team victories, including winning the Western Amateur Championship in 1979 and 1980. He was also a two-time Trans America Athletic Conference Player of the Year.
Turning professional in 1981, Sutton quickly made his mark on the PGA Tour. In 1983, he had a standout year, winning both The Players Championship and the PGA Championship, where he edged out Jack Nicklaus by one stroke. He also led the money list and was named PGA Tour Player of the Year that season. Throughout his career, Sutton accumulated 14 PGA Tour victories, including multiple wins at The Players Championship and a Tour Championship.
Beyond individual tournaments, Sutton represented the United States in several Ryder Cup teams and served as the non-playing captain in 2004. In recognition of his contributions to the sport, he received the Payne Stewart Award in 2007.
After transitioning to the PGA Tour Champions, Sutton continues to be involved in golf through his teaching academy, the Hal Sutton Golf Academy, where he shares his expertise with golfers of all levels.
For more insights into Hal Sutton’s perspective on The Players Championship, you might find this interview enlightening: