John Daly: 10 Wild Stories You Won’t Believe Are True
John Daly, the enigmatic and controversial golfing legend, has lived a life that often seems stranger than fiction.
From his unconventional style to his off-course antics, Daly has never shied away from the spotlight.
In this article, we uncover ten unbelievable tales from his wild career that will leave you speechless.
He Blew $1,650,000 Million in One Night
John Daly’s relationship with money has always been…colorful. Take his performance at the 2005 WGC-American Express Championship. Daly pushed Tiger Woods to the limit, ultimately finishing second and walking away with a cool $750,000. But where most would celebrate, Daly had a different destination in mind: Las Vegas. The Sin City lights beckoned, and Daly dove headfirst into a whirlwind of extravagance. Reports claim he gambled away a staggering $1.65 million in a single night, with a whopping $600,000 vanishing in the first 30 minutes! Daly’s rapid descent from champion to high roller solidified his reputation as a man of unpredictable impulses.
He’s Released Two Music Albums
When he’s not belting golf balls out of people’s mouths in car parks, Daly dabbles in a part-time music career. The big man enjoys country music so much that he recorded an autobiographical album titled My Life, featuring guest performances from Willie Nelson and Johnny Lee. Some aptly named tracks included ‘Hit It Hard’, ‘Big John’, ‘Blue Collar Golfer’ and my personal favourite ‘All My Exes Wear Rolexes’. Daly has also worked with Kid Rock, contributing backing vocals for his 2007 track ‘Half Your Age’.
He Was Caught In A Love Triangle With His Caddie Girlfriend
John Daly’s life isn’t just about bombs off the tee; it’s also known for its off-course theatrics. In 2016, a juicy scandal erupted involving his ex-wife, Sherrie Miller, and his current girlfriend, Anna Cladakis (who also happened to be his caddie). Miller filed a lawsuit against Cladakis, alleging that Cladakis was not just Daly’s girlfriend, but also his mistress. The accusations were explosive: “alienation of affection” and “intentional infliction of emotional distress.” This dramatic love triangle added another chapter to the ever-unfolding saga of John Daly.
He Carded An 18 On A Par-5
John Daly wasn’t afraid to rewrite the rulebook, even if it meant rewriting his own scorecard. Remember his meltdown on the par-5 sixth at Bay Hill? He once carded a respectable 10, but in 1998, he decided to go one (or should we say, eighteen) better. Yes, you read that right – an 18 on a par-5! This epic meltdown took Daly from a comfortable two-under-par to a staggering 11-over for the tournament. Ever the showman, Daly’s parting shot to playing partner Paul Goydos? “Hey, I’m out here to break records!”
He Got Detained After Passing Out Drunk At Hooters
John Daly’s wild streak wasn’t confined to the course. In 2008, a night out at Hooters took a surprising turn. Details remain hazy, but reports claim Daly “appeared extremely intoxicated and uncooperative.” The next thing he knew, he was waking up in jail. Police held him overnight until he sobered up, thankfully avoiding charges. What exactly transpired at Hooters that night? The answer remains a swinging mystery.
He Played Golf With No Shirt And Shoes
Classic Daly! In 2008, the golfing world witnessed another side of John Daly at the aptly named Murder Rock Golf Course in Branson, Missouri. Imagine the scene: a reporter interviews Daly mid-game, not on the green, but on the fairway itself. And how was Daly dressed for this occasion? Shirtless, shoeless, and with a cigarette nonchalantly dangling from his lips. This wasn’t just golf; it was a Daly masterpiece, defying convention with a signature blend of comfort and charisma.
He Got Dumped By His Golf Coach Butch Harmon
John Daly’s golfing journey wasn’t without its fiery breakups. In 2008, a shocking split rocked the golfing world. Legendary coach Butch Harmon abruptly severed ties with Daly, delivering a scathing indictment: “The most important thing in his life is getting drunk.” This accusation hit Daly hard. He publicly lashed out, claiming Harmon’s “lies” had a devastating impact: “destroyed my life for a little bit.” The truth behind the coach’s harsh words remains up for debate. Did Harmon simply voice a harsh reality, or was there more to the story?
He Stormed Off The Course At The 2011 Australian Open
The 2011 Australian Open witnessed a meltdown of epic proportions from John Daly. During the first round, his game unraveled at the 10th hole. After sending a staggering six or seven balls into the watery depths, Daly reached a breaking point. With a terse announcement to his playing partners, “I’m off,” he vanished from the course, grabbing his son and leaving a trail of bewildered spectators in his wake. Tournament director Trevor Herden’s response was swift and unforgiving: Daly would never grace the Australian Open fairways again.
He Lost a Lot Of Money Gambling
John Daly’s life has been a whirlwind of birdies, bogeys, and…well, bets. In a 2014 interview, the shocking truth about his gambling struggles came to light. Daly initially estimated his losses at a staggering $20-$25 million. However, a deep dive into his tax records for his autobiography revealed an even more sobering reality: his gambling habit had cost him a mind-numbing $55-$57 million. This wasn’t just about money; it was a glimpse into the immense personal cost Daly had endured.
He Got Into A Fist Fight in the Middle of a Tournament
John Daly’s fiery spirit wasn’t always confined to his swing. In 1994, the World Series of Golf witnessed a shocking outburst. Tempers flared when Daly’s errant tee shots twice found their way into the group ahead, containing PGA Tour player Jeff Roth. Roth’s father, clearly frustrated, confronted Daly, and a scuffle erupted. Thankfully, the crowd intervened before the situation escalated further. The aftermath was swift and severe: a hefty £13,000 fine and a ban for the rest of the season. Daly’s actions left fans and officials alike questioning his on-course temperament.
