“What’s motivating me to stick with it and keep working hard is to try to give myself like the Indian summer of my career, try to steal one of these to really make it a fantastic career,” said Justin Rose at the 2024 PGA Championship, referring to how his career would be ‘fantastic’ if he added a major win to it. But unfortunately, the golfer did not win the major as he finished tied at T6 with Shane Lowry. But that does not mean Rose doesn’t have a major win on his resume.

Born on July 30, 1980, Rose knew he wanted golf as soon as he turned five. Growing up in England, he was encouraged by his father, Ken Rose, a former British amateur champion, to pick up the clubs. Rose started playing at North Hants Golf Club in Fleet, Hampshire, where his talent quickly became apparent. By just 14, he was making waves on the national scene, finishing fourth at the 1995 Walker Cup and catching the attention of the golf world.

Rose’s amateur career was a whirlwind of success, setting the stage for his future professional triumphs. He picked up a golf club at just five years old and was winning tournaments by the time he was six. As a teenager, Rose dominated junior golf in the UK and Europe, claiming multiple titles. His impressive form earned him a spot on the Great Britain and Ireland team for the 1997 Walker Cup, where he played a key role in the team’s victory over the United States.

But it was his stunning performance at the 1998 Open Championship that truly put him on the global map – at just 17 years old, he finished tied for fourth place, becoming the youngest player to ever finish in the top five at a major. This achievement was a remarkable indicator of the bright future ahead for Rose, who would soon turn pro in 1998.

Then almost 15 years later, came the day the golfer had been waiting for his whole life. Rose claimed his first and only major title at the 2013 U.S. Open two strokes ahead of runners-up Jason Day and Phil Mickelson at Merion Golf Club. This victory marked a significant milestone in his career, showcasing his skill and determination on the biggest stage.

However, Rose’s major record isn’t limited to just this one win. He’s also had several impressive runner-up finishes in majors. At the Masters, he fell just short in 2015 and 2017, while at the Open Championship, he finished second in both 2018 and 2024. Still, it’s the thrill of winning the 2013 U.S. Open that still echoes in the hearts of the fans who attended the tournament. However, many still don’t know that the victory was special for the golfer for more than one reason.

Justin Rose dedicated his first major victory to his late father

Justin Rose’s first major championship triumph was a moment he would never forget, and it’s a testament to the special bond he shared with his father, Ken. When Rose sunk the winning putt at the 2013 US Open, he kissed the ball and pointed to the sky, a heartfelt gesture that would become an iconic image of the golfing year. His father, who had passed away from cancer 11 years earlier, was the inspiration behind this emotional moment. “I phoned my mum after my round and we both were in floods of tears speaking to each other; she misses my dad immensely,” Rose said.

“I miss him immensely. And I thought it was just a fitting time in which I could honor him by looking up.” The victory was also a culmination of Rose’s journey, which had been marked by struggles after turning pro. However, his coach Sean Foley’s words of encouragement on the last morning of the tournament stuck with him – to “go out there and be the man that your dad taught you to be and that your kids can look up to.”

And well, his children, Leo, born in February 2009, and Lottie, born in 2012 certainly look up to the legacy their father has created. So, what do you think about the golfer? Let us know in the comment section below!