Few stories have shattered the hearts of golf fans in the last few years more than the tragic demise of Colombian golfer Camilo Villegas’ daughter. While the world was battling with COVID-19 in the middle of 2020, the Villegas family was raging a futile battle for their little kid.

It was an uphill battle for Colombian International to overcome the grief and come out on the greens once again. But his wife stood by his side, urging him to play golf once again, as it was the only way he could battle with the loss. Three years later, Villegas sits atop the leaderboard at the World Wide Technology Championship in Mexico and eyes his fifth PGA Tour victory. A moment his daughter would have been proud of!

What happened to Camilio Villegas’ daughter?

Villegas and his wife noticed something strange about their daughter, Mia Villegas, in March 2020. Their 18-month-old baby was not active like before and was crying at night. The couple was quick to seek medical attention and took their baby to the Nicklaus Children’s Hospital in Miami.

The couple learned that their only child had developed tumors in her brain and spine. A four-month battle ensued that included surgeries and chemotherapy. Unfortunately, nothing could save 22-month-old Mia Villegas.

Three years after the tragedy, they have taken many initiatives to help children who need medical attention. Villegas’ existing foundation has been transformed into Mia’s Miracles to support children in Florida and Colombia, his native country.

The couple never sought popularity, with most of their philanthropic work having flown under the radar of media attention. However, a strong comeback on the greens at the World Wide Technology Championship once again brought the Colombian golfer to the forefront.

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Camilo Villegas leads at the World Wide Technology Championship

Villegas took a consecutive 8-under-64 to strengthen his no. 1 spot on the leaderboard at the World Wide Technology Championship before the play was suspended on Friday. With a 16-under score, Colombian International could very well think about his fifth PGA Tour title, the first since the 2014 Wyndham Championship victory.

Playing at a sponsor exemption at El Cardonal, the first Tiger Woods-designed course to host a PGA Tour event, the 41-year-old golfer needs to hold on to his lead for two more rounds to be crowned the champion. A win will surely be a welcome solace to Camilo Villegas after being pushed by his wife to return to the greens after the heartbreaking tragedy.

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