Introduction
Curtis Strange is a legendary figure in the realm of professional golf, celebrated for his exemplary skills, determination, and contributions to the sport. This celebrated athlete distinguished himself with a reputable professional career, marked by notable achievements including being a two-time U.S. Open Champion. His journey, starting from his humble beginnings to scaling the heights of golf, paints a vivid picture of prodigious talent and unyielding perseverance.
Early Life
Born on January 30, 1955, in Norfolk, Virginia, United States, Curtis Northrup Strange grew up in a golf-loving family. His father, Tom Strange, instilled in him a passion for the sport from a tender age. Following the death of his father when Curtis was 14, he channeled his energy into the sport, honing his skills and mastering the greens.
Curtis enrolled at Wake Forest University on a golf scholarship. His years in college were a fundamental period in his development as an athlete, where he thrived and led his team to victory in the NCAA Championship in 1974 and 1975. In these formative years, Curtis demonstrated a unique talent and potential that set the trajectory for his successful professional career.
Profile Summary
Full Name: Curtis Northrup Strange
Age: 66 years old
Birthday: January 30, 1955
Nationality: American
Hometown: Norfolk, Virginia, US
Occupation: Professional Golf Player, Sportscaster
Known for: Winning the U.S. Open twice consecutively (1988, 1989)
Net Worth: $8 million
Professional Career
Curtis Strange transitioned into his professional career in 1976, soon after graduating from college. His talents set him apart in the golfing world, leading to his phenomenal success, including 20 victories on the PGA Tour, the most notable of those being the U.S Open Championships in 1988 and 1989. He became the first player to win consecutive U.S. Opens since Ben Hogan in 1950-51.
Strange also became the first man in PGA Tour history to surpass $1 million in earnings in a season in 1988, marking a landmark in his career. He later transitioned into broadcasting, joining the ABC Sports golf team and has since provided golf commentary throughout numerous tournaments, offering unique insights from a champion’s perspective.
However, like any sporting career, Strange’s journey wasn’t without its lows. His fortunes dipped into the 90s, not managing to secure any major wins. Despite this, Strange remained a persistent figure in golf, furthering his legacy through his work as a broadcaster.
Throughout his career, Curtis Strange modeled a rare fusion of talent, grit, and dedication that firmly engraved his name in the annals of golfing history. His life and career remain an inspiration for generations of golf enthusiasts and upcoming players.