Despite Triumphing Over a Beastly Tiger Woods, the $13.7 Million PGA Tour Phenom Chose Academics Over the Open Championship Glory

Being the oldest golf tournament, the Open Championship is one of the most coveted events in men’s golf. Even participating in this competition brings competitors great honor. And it becomes the moniker of everlasting glory for those who succeed in winning the hallowed event.

At present the whole golf world is engrossed in the Open at Royal Liverpool. There are many top golfers trying to register their names in the history books. However, this PGA Tour legend, who defeated three-time Open winner Tiger Woods in the same competition 20 years ago, decided not to play in the ongoing edition, choosing rather a peaceful life over golf. Let’s find out who he is!

The 2003 Claret Jug winner chose not to compete

In 2003, the world’s 396th-ranked golfer, who had turned professional in 2000, had no idea how his life would change after competing in his first major. Ben Curtis, an American professional golfer, made history by winning his first major. First instance in 90 years since somebody won a major on debut.

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After that, he became an overnight sensation, and he kept up the good work in the following years. In addition to winning four PGA Tour events, Curtis tied for second at the PGA Championship and the Players Championship and was selected for the Ryder Cup-winning team. However, his Open triumph proved to be his last success at a major event. His career earnings totaled more than $13.7 million when he last participated in a tour event in 2017.

Despite having an exemption to play in the 2023 Open Championship, Curtis decided against doing so. Curtis is now a golf instructor in Ohio. At Kent’s Theodore Roosevelt High School, he coaches his son’s golf team. He also teaches at the academy. Let’s take a trip down to his winning moment.

I’m going to win this, Curtis said to himself before the win

Curtis fired a 69 in the final round at the Royal St. George to win. He won by one stroke over Thomas Björn and Vijay Singh. In a New York Times interview, Curtis recalled all those moments leading up to his victory. He claimed that the first nine holes were difficult for him. However, he quickly recorded 3-under in the other half, which gave him a lot of confidence. ”I shot three under on that back nine, and it just boosted my confidence. When we went to bed that night, I was like, I’m going to win this thing.” 

The 2003 win definitely made Curtis a big name. He decided to stay away from the game prematurely but we respect his decision. The new phase in his life is equally interesting. What do you think about Curtis’ decision? Let us know in the comments.

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