John’s big moment, however, came in 1991 when he not only joined the PGA Tour, but won the PGA Championship that same year. Playing in just his third major, he secured a three-stroke victory, which also earned him PGA Tour Rookie of the Year, honors that year.
His playing style, unorthodox appearance and zero-to-hero narrative – he was the ninth and final alternate – provided the impetus for a cult-like fan base, composed of many people who had not been previously attracted to golf, and from that point onwards, he became one of the most popular players on Tour.
In 1995, John then won The Open Championship in a playoff with Italian Costantino Rocca at St Andrews, finishing the four holes of the playoff at one under par, while his European opponent finished three over par after hitting into the Road Hole Bunker and taking three shots to get out.
John made a comeback in 2004 by winning the Buick Invitational and earnt the title of PGA Tour Comeback Player of the Year – winning the playoff against Luke Donald and Chris Riley, he ranked 4th for statistic for the 2004 PGA Tour season and brought his world ranking back into the top 50 in the world.
John’s ability to overcome adversity and seize the opportunity of success makes him an ideal golf speaker for sporting events. Equally at home hosting golf days as he is speaking about his time on the course, he is a wonderful character to have with you during your day playing golf.
