“It’s weird, I don’t feel like there’s only 11 players in the world better than me.” That’s how Sahith Theegala summed it up during an interview at this year’s PGA Championship. At first, it might sound underwhelming for someone whose potential seems to leap off the page. But if you’ve followed Theegala’s journey, you know there’s more to the story—much more.

Since turning pro in 2020, Theegala has quietly but confidently made his mark in golf. He’s got one career win, 13 top-5 finishes, and 22 top-10s to his name, and he sits comfortably at No. 12 in the Official World Golf Ranking. Impressive? Definitely. But is Theegala just about stats and trophies? Not quite. Those who know him best will tell you that his story goes far beyond the leaderboard.

Born on December 4, 1997, in Orange, California, Theegala carries the rich influence of his Indian heritage while embracing the opportunities that came with growing up in the U.S. And yes, it’s his birthday month! As he turns 27, it feels like the perfect time to reflect on some of the best and most memorable moments of his golfing career.

1. Theegala won his first PGA Tour trophy: Winning your first PGA Tour title is every pro’s dream, and Sahith Theegala made it happen in 2023 at the Fortinet Championship. With a 4-under 68, he claimed his first win in 74 starts, finishing at 21-under for a two-shot victory. What made it special wasn’t just the win, but who was there to see it. Surrounded by family and friends, Theegala shared the emotional win with his parents by his side.

“No matter the good golf or the bad golf, they just have my back. It’s a team win,” he said, “It’s not just a win for me, it’s a win for the whole family.”

His first win was certainly overwhelming, but there are many more to come.

2. Theegala’s demeanor speaks about his personality: Theegala’s rise in the golf world hasn’t changed him one bit—just ask his friends. They’ll probably laugh at the idea. “He’s the nicest guy. He wouldn’t hurt a fly,” says his best friend, Roy Cootes. “He just loves to be around us and have a good time, and he’s super supportive. He wants us to be just as successful as he is.”

That’s Theegala beyond the greens—genuine, humble, and always rooting for others. And the best part? He’s the same guy on the course. No ego, no attitude, just the same easygoing demeanor. And his caddie would tell you the same.

3. Theegala gifted his caddie his dream watch: Sahith Theegala and his caddie, Carl Smith, go way back—back to their college golf days—which makes their partnership feel more like a friendship than a job. Smith officially joined Theegala’s team this year and has been along for the ride as Theegala finished third in the 2024 FedEx Cup standings, claiming $8.5 million in the process.

But the coolest moment? Theegala surprised Smith with a Rolex, the kind of watch Smith had always dreamed of. Worth around $50,000, it wasn’t just a flashy gift—it was Theegala’s way of saying thanks for being part of the journey.

4. Theegala is a man of words: Sahith Theegala is living proof that “honesty is the best policy,” even when it’s tough. Let’s be real—most of us might hesitate if being honest meant losing out, but not Theegala. For him, values come first, even before his game.

During the third round of the Tour Championship at East Lake, Theegala did something most wouldn’t even consider. In a bunker on the third hole, he brushed the sand during his backswing—something no one noticed. But he called a penalty on himself, knowing it violated Rule 12.2b. NBC Sports analyst Kevin Kisner couldn’t believe it, even joking that Theegala should’ve asked for his two strokes back.

But that’s just who Theegala is. To him, it’s not about what you can get away with—it’s about doing what’s right. And in a world where that’s not always easy, it makes him stand out even more.

5. Theegala beyond the greens: When you hear the name Sahith Theegala, golf probably comes to mind first. But off the course, he’s got another game he’s passionate about—chess. Theegala first got into chess during his senior year at Pepperdine after breaking his wrist and was sidelined from golf for six months. His teammate, Derek Hitchner, encouraged him to try it out, and soon they played regularly.

“Derek got him into it and used to beat him, but over the last couple of years Sahith’s gotten really good as well, and now they kind of go back and forth,” says Cootes. So, when Theegala’s not hitting fairways, you might find him working out strategies on the chessboard. 

With a flair for the game and a heart of gold, Sahith Theegala’s journey is just getting started. As he continues to make his mark, there will be many more wins and unforgettable moments ahead in his career.