Gene Sarazen

Date of Birth: February 27, 1902

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: May 13, 1999

Biography

Gene Sarazen, born Eugenio Saraceni on February 27, 1902, was an American professional golfer, one of the greats in the sport’s history. Known for his extraordinary skills and innovation, Sarazen had a career that spanned several decades, starting in the 1920s. He is one of only five golfers to win all the modern major championships, known as the Career Grand Slam. Sarazen’s career took off in 1922 when he won both the U.S. Open and the PGA Championship at the age of 20. Throughout his career, he won a total of 39 PGA Tour events, including seven major championships: the U.S. Open (1922, 1932), the PGA Championship (1922, 1923, 1933), The Masters (1935), and The Open Championship (1932). Apart from his playing achievements, Sarazen is credited with the invention of the modern sand wedge, which revolutionized bunker play. He was known for his determination and innovation on the course, which earned him a place among golf’s elite. Sarazen was also a beloved figure in the golfing community, known for his sportsmanship and contribution to the game’s development. He remained active in the sport well into his later years, often appearing at major tournaments and sharing his wisdom with younger generations.

5 Interesting Facts about Gene Sarazen

1. Gene Sarazen is one of only five golfers to have won all four of golf’s modern major championships, completing the Career Grand Slam.

2. He is credited with inventing the modern sand wedge, a significant innovation in golf equipment.

3. Sarazen won his first major championships, the U.S. Open and the PGA Championship, in 1922 at the young age of 20.

4. In 1935, Sarazen hit the “shot heard ’round the world,” an albatross (double eagle) on the 15th hole at The Masters, which helped him win the tournament.

5. He was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1974.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Gene Sarazen

1. “I don’t care what you say about me. Just spell the name right.”

2. “The older I get, the better I used to be.”

3. “Golf is like a love affair. If you don’t take it seriously, it’s no fun. If you do take it seriously, it breaks your heart.”

4. “Practice, practice, practice until you get it right. Then practice some more until you can’t get it wrong.”

5. “Success in golf depends less on strength of body than upon strength of mind and character.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Gene Sarazen’s net worth was estimated to be around $1 million, a significant amount during his time.

Children

Gene Sarazen had three children: Mary Ann, Gene Jr., and Gloria. His family was an important part of his life, and he often spoke of the balance between his career and his role as a father.