9 Pro Athletes Who’ll Leave You in the Dust on the Golf Course
Embark on a journey through the extraordinary lives of these athletic marvels who could’ve easily chosen golf careers. Unveil which superstar athlete made the jaw-dropping choice to swap fame for fairways. Delve into their captivating stories and witness how their surprising golf abilities have left many in awe.
Tony Romo (NFL) – Handicap: +1.6
Former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo has seamlessly transitioned from the gridiron to the golf course, showcasing his prowess with three victories at the American Century Championship in 2018, 2019, and 2022.
Steph Curry (NBA) – Handicap: +1.3
NBA superstar Steph Curry seamlessly translates his clutch performance from the basketball court to the golf course, evident in his recent victory at the 2023 American Century Championship, solidifying his skill beyond hoops.
Jerry Rice (NFL) – Handicap: +1.2
Despite not securing a win on the golf course, NFL Hall of Famer Jerry Rice, who even took a shot at the Nationwide Tour, compensates with a stellar football career, boasting three championship rings.
Michael Jordan (NBA) – Handicap: 1.9
Basketball legend Michael Jordan, known as the GOAT on the hardwood with six titles, showcased his golfing prowess by winning his member’s tournament in 2021 alongside Keegan Bradley. Adding to his versatility, Jordan also had a stint as a MiLB player in the Chicago White Sox organization.
Ashleigh Barty (Tennis) – Handicap: 4
Ashleigh Barty, tennis prodigy turned golfer, made headlines by retiring from tennis at 25 to pursue new dreams, including golf. Her promising start in golf saw her clinch her first title at a local tournament in Brisbane, Australia.
John Smoltz (MLB) – Handicap: +1.5
Following his illustrious baseball career, Hall-of-Famer John Smoltz doesn’t slow down in retirement. He competes at a high level in golf, featuring in PGA-sanctioned events like the American Century Championship and notably the U.S. Senior Open.
Mark Mulder (MLB) – Handicap: 0.5
Former MLB pitcher Mark Mulder’s precision on the mound seamlessly translates to the golf course, where he shares a record of three American Century Championship wins with Tony Romo, showcasing his accuracy beyond baseball.
Joe Pavelski (NHL) – Handicap: 0
As his NHL career possibly heads towards Hall of Fame consideration, Joe Pavelski’s golf game gains momentum. A longtime golf enthusiast since high school, he secured a commendable third-place finish at the 2023 American Century Championship.
Harry Kane (Soccer) – Handicap: 3
Harry Kane, renowned for his football accolades including a World Cup Golden Boot, showcased his love for golf by competing in The Icons Series at Liberty National Golf Club in 2021, expressing aspirations to play in the tournaments he admires.
