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World Golf Hall of Famer and eight-time PGA Tour winner Juan “Chi-Chi” Rodriguez has died at the age of 88.
Rodríguez turned professional in 1960 and won the Denver Open, at age 28, three years later.
The Puerto Rican considered it his favourite win, despite going on to lift another seven titles while playing on the American circuit.
He was an icon both on and off the golf course, with his matador routine – otherwise known as his ‘sword dance’ – winning over fans and players alike.
Rodriguez was a major philanthropist, too, taking great pride in his Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation in Florida, that helped at-risk youth achieve academic, social and economic success.
Before turning to the Senior PGA Tour and lifting 22 titles, including two major championships – the 1986 Senior Players Championship and the 1987 Senior PGA Championship, Rodriguez also helped the United States to a Ryder Cup victory in 1973.
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The USGA’s highest honour, the Bob Jones award, went the way of Rodriguez in 1989 before he was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1992.
Despite being just 5ft 7in, few stood taller than Rodriguez, who goes down as Puerto Rico’s best golfer of all time.
“Chi Chi Rodriguez’s passion for charity and outreach was surpassed only by his incredible talent with a golf club in his hand,” said PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan in a statement.
“A vibrant, colorful personality both on and off the golf course, he will be missed dearly by the PGA Tour and those whose lives he touched in his mission to give back.
“The PGA Tour sends its deepest condolences to the entire Rodriguez family during this difficult time.”
Tributes have poured in on social media since the announcement on Thursday, August 8.
A gifted player, entertainer and humanitarian, World Golf Hall of Famer Juan "Chi Chi" Rodriguez of Puerto Rico died on Thursday at 88.
A 30x @PGATOUR and @ChampionsTour winner, he played on the victorious 1973 @RyderCupUSA team and received the 1989 @USGA Bob Jones Award. pic.twitter.com/RzOvceTwcu
— Golf Hall of Fame (@GolfHallofFame) August 9, 2024
Dang it!! One of golf’s greatest ambassadors Chi Chi Rodriguez has passed away. Sad day!
His approach to tie Nicklaus on the 18th of the final round at Oakland Hills during the 91 US Senior Open may be the coolest shot I have ever watched on TV.
— KIP HENLEY (@KipHenley) August 9, 2024
We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Juan “Chi Chi” Rodriguez, our 1987 Senior PGA Champion and a member of the victorious 1973 U.S. Ryder Cup Team.
A legend of the game. Rest in peace, Chi Chi. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/LkKUemY2y9
— PGA of America (@PGA) August 9, 2024
Sad to hear the passing of Chi Chi Rodriguez. He was a character, showman and had a passion for giving back. RIP #golf
— Annika Sorenstam (@ANNIKA59) August 9, 2024
51 years ago, Chi Chi Rodriguez won @WyndhamChamp at Sedgefield CC in a Monday finish.
Contenders included Arnold Palmer, Lee Trevino and 60-year-old Sam Snead.
It was his seventh of eight @PGATOUR titles.
Rest in peace to one of golf's great characters and philanthropists. ❤️ https://t.co/7Rfbqm5TMf pic.twitter.com/KmvCIVXYDM
— Kevin Prise (@PGATOURKevin) August 9, 2024
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