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via Imago

via Imago

The golfing world has lost a captivating role model, a man whose love of golf, inspired countless others, even in the face of unthinkable adversity. Scott Stewart, a 41-year-old golfer, had motor neuron disease (MND), a rare and incurable disorder that affects the brain and nervous system. Despite his tragic diagnosis, Scott’s passion for golf remained unwavering, and he continued to play the game he loved, even as his body began to succumb to the disease.

Last year Scott won everyone’s heart as he took on the course at the Genesis Scottish Alzheimer’s Open with some of golf’s top names, including Dougray Scott, Scott Brown, Robert MacIntyre, and the Crypto.com showdown champion, Rory McIlroy. The MND fighter competed alongside eventual victor, MacIntyre on the My Name’5 Doddie Pro-Am team, which also included former Scottish rugby international Rob Wainwright, ex-professional footballer Scott Brown, and actor Dougray Scott.

But what was most heartwarming was when he received a wonderful surprise from four-time Major winner and former world number one McIlroy. The PGA Tour pro took time out of his round to chat with his biggest fan on the course. It was a dream come true for Scott, who showed grit and tenacity in the face of difficulties.

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But Scott’s story is not just about his love for golf – it’s about his bravery in the face of a devastating diagnosis. MND is a cruel disease, with no known cure, and a life expectancy of just two to three years after diagnosis. Scott was diagnosed with the condition in March of this year, and he knew that his time was limited.

Despite this, Scott refused to give up. He drew inspiration from other sports heroes who had fought MND, including Joost van der Westhuizen and Doddie Weir. And he continued to play golf, even when his body began to slow down. As he so eloquently put it, “I’m three down with three to play. But I’m not beaten yet, and I’m not giving up.”

Sadly, Scott’s fight came to an end yesterday, December 23, leaving the golfing community in mourning. My Name’5 Doddie Foundation took to social media to pay tribute to Scott, saying, “We are so sad to hear of the death of our great friend and Foundation supporter Scott Stewart. Scott faced his MND with such strength and was determined to shine a spotlight on what he and thousands of others face every day.”

As the news of Scott’s passing spread, tributes began pouring in from the golfing community. One user wrote, “RIP Scott. The fight against #MND not just continues, but gets stronger. Such a horrific disease.” Another sent love to Scott’s family, saying, “Sending love to Scott’s family. A wonderful man and so brave.”

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Scott is survived by his wife, Robyn, whom he married in a tiny ceremony shortly before Christmas last year. As the golfing community mourns the loss of this brave enthusiast, fans showered their sympathies on Scott’s family and friends. “Such sad news …RIP Scott…🙏,” a golf enthusiast wrote. His influence on the sport and the people around him was wild. But what made Scott such a popular character in the golf world?

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Where did Scott Stewart start from?

Scott’s journey began at a very young age. Scott first picked up a golf club when he was two years old and has since been a great inspiration to many. At the age of five, he represented Scotland at the Under-19 level, alongside future full internationals Kelly Brown, Phil Goodman, and Chris Cusiter, as well as Graeme Morrison, Rory Lawson, and Ally Hogg. He went on to play for Scotland at the Under-19 level, alongside future full internationals Kelly Brown, Phil Goodman, and Chris Cusiter, as well as Graeme Morrison, Rory Lawson, and Ally Hogg.

What truly stands out about Scott’s journey is his determination not to let his MND diagnosis hold him back. Most surprisingly, he did not quit after being diagnosed. He continued to advocate for and support MND associations such as The My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, the MND Association, the Darby Rimmer Foundation, 4Ed, and so on.

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The outpouring of love and support for Scott’s family has been amazing, with followers using social media to offer their condolences. netizens have been showcasing their grievance by commenting “R.I.P” or flooding the comment section with “💔” emojis.

Scott Stewart may have passed, but his legacy will live on! Rest in peace, Scott Stewart.

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Does Scott Stewart's story redefine what it means to be a hero in sports?