Helping others can never hurt, or so Steve Stricker would’ve thought. And as he celebrates his 58th birthday today, it’s a great reminder that kindness and generosity can have a lasting impact. Back in 2013, Stricker, a part-time player and all-around good guy, lent a helping hand to Tiger Woods, who was struggling with his putting. Little did he know that this act of kindness might just cost him his last win on the PGA Tour.

As it turns out, Woods asked Stricker to take a look at his putting on the eve of the WGC-Cadillac Championship. That putting session resulted in the best putting performance of Woods’s career, needing only 100 putts in four days. Stricker finished second, just two shots behind Woods. When asked about his role in Woods’s victory, Stricker humbly said, “Who knows, he might have putted just as good without my help.” Woods, on the other hand, acknowledged Stricker’s contribution, saying, “I would like to say I probably would have. But…there’s a but there.”

Despite missing out on the win, Stricker remains optimistic, and his selfless act is a testament to the camaraderie and sportsmanship that exists in the golfing community. As he looks back on that moment, Stricker can take pride in knowing that he helped a fellow golfer achieve greatness, even if it meant sacrificing his own chance at victory. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the greatest rewards come not from winning, but from helping others succeed. And who knows, maybe Stricker’s act of kindness will come full circle, and he’ll find himself on the receiving end of a helping hand in the future.

This isn’t the first time Steve Stricker has lent a helping hand to his fellow golfers.

Steve Stricker’s ‘Cliche’ advice to young golfers

Steve Stricker has never shied away from helping others. In fact, he’s always been willing to share his wisdom and experience with others. When it comes to advice for young golfers, Stricker is clear: “Don’t try to fix something that isn’t broken.” He believes that golfers on the PGA Tour are at the highest level because they’ve stayed true to their game. “My advice to young golfers may be cliché, but it’s still incredibly important,” he says per The Players Tribune. “Cherish every moment you have on the PGA Tour. Don’t take anything for granted. Don’t chase dollars, whether it’s equipment deals or appearance fees. Let the game that brought you to the top be the focus.” It’s clear that Stricker has learned a thing or two about what it takes to succeed in golf, and he’s eager to pass on his knowledge to the next generation.

Stricker’s own journey is a great example of how staying true to oneself can lead to success. From his humble beginnings in Edgerton, Wis., to his current status as a golf legend, Stricker has remained committed to his values and his passion for the game. He hopes that his story will serve as a reminder to young golfers to stay focused on their craft and not get distracted by external pressures. As he looks back on his career, Stricker is grateful for the opportunities he’s had and the lessons he’s learned. And to the younger generation of golfers, he says, “Just remember, keep working at what you’re good at. You’re all an inspiration to so many people – young and old.”