Gary Middlecoff

Gary Joseph Middlecoff (January 6, 1921 – September 1, 1963) was an American professional golfer. He won the U.S. Open in 1949 and 1956, and the Masters Tournament in 1955.

Early life and amateur career

Middlecoff was born in Halls, Tennessee, on January 6, 1921. He began playing golf at the age of 12, and by the time he was 16, he was competing in national tournaments. In 1941, he won the U.S. Amateur Championship, becoming the youngest player to ever win the tournament.

Professional career

Middlecoff turned professional in 1942, and he quickly established himself as one of the top players in the world. He won his first PGA Tour event in 1947, and he went on to win a total of 33 tournaments during his career. Middlecoff's greatest success came in the major championships. He won the U.S. Open in 1949 and 1956, and the Masters Tournament in 1955. He also finished in the top 10 in the U.S. Open 10 times and in the top 10 in the Masters Tournament 7 times. In addition to his major championship victories, Middlecoff also won several other prestigious tournaments, including the PGA Championship in 1949 and the Western Open in 1951 and 1955. He was also a member of the United States Ryder Cup team in 1951 and 1953.

Death

Middlecoff died of leukemia on September 1, 1963, at the age of 42. He was buried in Memphis, Tennessee.

Legacy

Middlecoff is considered one of the greatest golfers of all time. He was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1974. Middlecoff was known for his aggressive style of play and his ability to hit the ball a long way. He was also a very good putter. Middlecoff's impact on the game of golf is still felt today. He is credited with helping to popularize the use of the driver and the fairway wood, and he is also remembered for his innovative approach to the game.

Social media

Gary Middlecoff does not have any official social media accounts.

Recent projects

There are no recent projects associated with Gary Middlecoff.

Other information

* Middlecoff was married twice and had two children. * He was a close friend of Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus. * He was a member of the Memphis Golf Hall of Fame and the Tennessee Golf Hall of Fame. * A tournament on the PGA Tour, the Gary Middlecoff Invitational, was held from 1964 to 1973 in his honor. * A street in Memphis, Tennessee, is named after Middlecoff.