David Duval, a distinguished American professional golfer, and former World No. 1, made an indelible mark on the golfing world during his illustrious career. Born on November 9, 1971, in Jacksonville, Florida, Duval’s journey to golfing stardom began with a series of accolades as a collegiate player. After earning his PGA Tour card in 1995, Duval’s ascent was rapid, highlighted by back-to-back ACC Player of the Year titles and the 1993 National Player of the Year award.
Between 1997 and 2001, Duval dominated the PGA Tour, securing 13 victories, including the prestigious 2001 Open Championship, where he claimed his sole major title. His exceptional performance during this period was further underscored by finishing in the top-5 on the money list for four consecutive seasons, leading in both money and scoring in 1998. Notable victories include the 1997 Tour Championship and the 1999 Players Championship.
Despite these triumphs, Duval faced adversity in the latter part of his career. Following his 2001 Open Championship win, injuries and medical conditions hampered his performance, leading to a decline that saw him lose his tour card in 2011. Undeterred, Duval found a new role in the golfing world as a respected analyst and commentator for Golf Channel and ESPN. His insightful commentary and deep understanding of the game have made him a valuable presence in the golfing community, ensuring that his legacy endures both on and off the course.