It is always a moment of great sorrow when a sporting great leaves this world to go on another plane. The memories left behind are the only respite from the pain of losing a near and dear one. Recently, surfing legend Kelly Slater experienced something similar when he heard about the passing of a famous golfer, Mike Perez. On July 24, 2023, Pat Perez, the older brother of Mike Perez, announced the tragic death of his younger brother and shared an emotional tribute to the fallen golfer.

Mike was born to parents of Mexican-American descent and was part of a family deeply rooted in golfing. He made the sport his profession and excelled at it. Today, Kelly Slater shared a tribute after hearing the news of the demise of the 43-year-old. Sharing an emotional message about the golfer’s death, Slater remembered the gem the world lost.

Kelly Slater pens profound message after demise of famous golfer

The tribute was shared by the 11-time world champion on his Instagram stories. While recollecting the legacy of the 43-year-old, Kelly Slater shared a photo of Mike Perez. In the black and white photo, the golfer was seen wearing a hat and smiling ear to ear while making a gesture with his hands. Along with the picture, Slater also shared a heartfelt message for Perez. In his Instagram story, Kelly Slater wrote, “#RIP to my buddy, Mike Perez.” He then added a three-word message for the golf star, saying, “Gone too soon.” He also shared a video of Perez playing golf, saying, “Mike doing what he did best!”

The surfing icon also reminded the world of the TV show through which Mike Perez gained popularity. He said, “Always smiling and laughing, you might remember Mike from the Big Break. This man could seriously hit a golf ball. Pains me to hear about this today. Not even sure what to say”. The Big Break Disney Golf is the name of the 12th season of the Golf Channel television series The Big Break, in which golfers competed in skills challenges and golf matches and faced elimination each week. Mike Perez was a champion of the Big Break. Kelly Slater was not the only one to share an emotional message at the tragic passing of Mike Perez.

Read more: ‘RIP’: John Daly and the Golf World Joins In to Mourn With LIV Golf Icon Pat Perez on ‘The Saddest Day’ of His Life

Mike’s elder brother, Pat Perez was absolutely devastated at the untimely passing of his younger brother. The 47-year-old professional golfer shared a post on his Instagram account, baring his soul to the world. Pat Perez wrote, “I don’t know what to say as I thought this day would never come. We had so much fun together growing up and he was always in my corner.” He further added, “I’m really at a loss for words. Gonna be a long life without him in it. I love you little brother.” In this sad time, it is important to remember the legacy that made Mike Perez a beloved character to so many people.

A stalwart of the golfing community

An accomplished golfer, Mike Perez managed to earn the prestigious title of WGTF Master Professional and Top 60 Professional Golf Teacher during his professional journey. With almost 3 decades in the golfing community, Perez made a respectable name for himself in the sport. It is no surprise he had an impact on greats such as Kelly Slater. Perez was also involved in furthering the cause of the community.

He was known for nurturing young talents. He Mike specialized in providing golf lessons for Junior players and conducting High School Student clinics. He was skilled as an instructor and an event organizer who had the innate sensibility to cater to the needs of a diverse clientele. His efforts in improving the sport and serving the needs of the community are qualities that make this loss all the more hard to bear.

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