Gene Littler

Profession: Golfer

Nationality:

Biography: Gene Littler was an American professional golfer known as "Gene the Machine." He won the 1961 U.S. Open, as well as 29 PGA Tour events. Littler also played on seven Ryder Cup teams and was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1990.

Littler demonstrated his golfing talent early on as part of the 1953 United States Walker Cup team and by winning the U.S. Amateur and California State Amateur the same year. He served in the United States Navy from 1951 to 1954 and attended San Diego State University. After a rare victory on the PGA Tour as an amateur in 1954, he turned professional and secured a second-place finish at the 1954 U.S. Open.

Throughout his career, Littler claimed 29 PGA Tour wins, with the 1961 U.S. Open among his most significant achievements, where he triumphed over Doug Sanders. He had a notable presence in majors, consistently placing in the top 10.

After being diagnosed with melanoma in 1972, Littler returned to win five additional PGA Tour events post-treatment. His accomplishments include winning the Bing Crosby National Pro-Am as both an amateur and a professional.

Littler was regularly recognized for his sportsmanship, receiving the Ben Hogan Award and the Bob Jones Award in 1973. His senior career was also successful, with eight wins on the Senior PGA Tour and victories in Japan and other senior events.

Littler married Shirley Warren in 1951 and together they had two children, Curt and Suzanne. His impact on golf included inspiring the comic character Sandy Mac Divot.

Born: July 21, 1930
Birthplace: San Diego, California, USA

Generation: Silent Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Horse
Star Sign: Cancer

Died: February 15, 2019 (aged 88)