The realm of golf, a sport replete with iconic personalities and tales of unparalleled sportsmanship, was blessed to have been graced by Doug Sanders. Known for his vibrant style and charismatic persona both on and off the green, Sanders’ story is one of undeniable grit and unyieldable passion for the game of golf.
Doug Sanders was born on July 24, 1933, in the rural community of Cedartown, Georgia. His formative years were far from the glamorous world of professional golf. Sanders grew up in poverty and spent considerable time laboring in the cotton fields during his childhood. His initial introduction to golf, however, came as a caddie at the local nine-hole golf course, where he was given the opportunity to hone his skills and develop an understanding of the game’s technical nuances. This early exposure was instrumental in molding Sanders’ future in golf, laying the foundation of a hitter who was phenomenal on the fairways.
Described often as a peacock due to his sartorial flamboyance, Sanders spared no chance to make a spectacle of himself, which wasn’t exclusive to his golfing. He was infamous for his colorful and bold wardrobe choices on the course, harmoniously blending his eye-catching fashion sense with his formidable golfing prowess.
Sanders made his professional debut in 1957 and established an impressive career spanning over two decades. With impeccable control over his shots and the ability to maintain composed under pressure, he was referred to as being “the best putter of all time,” a title that bore testament to his exceptional skills and accuracy.
In his distinguished career, Sanders achieved 20 PGA Tour victories, which included four significant championships. From winning the Canadian Open Championship in 1956 to clinching the Doral-Ryder Open in 1966, Sanders proved to be a formidable force on the green. His 1966 season was particularly noteworthy as he cruised past Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer to finish in the top ten rankings eleven times. Although the much-coveted major championship title eluded Sanders, his performances at the 1961 British Open, and the 1970 Open championship stand amongst the most memorable events of his career.
Despite his spectacular triumphs and compelling displays on the course, Sanders’s storied career was also marked with moments of agonizing defeat. The 1970 Open Championship at St. Andrews is a prime example, where he missed a relatively short putt on the 72nd hole that would have sealed him the victory. Even though Sanders admitted that this mistake haunted him for years, he understood and embraced that the nature of the game yields moments of both euphoria and disappointment.
Sanders retired from professional golf in 1977, but his association with the game never ceased. He remained an active figure, participating in various charity games and Senior PGA Tour events right until his 80s and leaving an indelible mark on the sport’s history.
Beyond the golf course, Sanders displayed a tremendous ability to engage with the audience. His vivid anecdotes and sharp wit made him a much sought-after speaker and commentator in the world of golf. This skill served to further cement his status as not just a formidable golfer, but also a charismatic ambassador for the sport.
The golfing legend passed away in April 2020, leaving a legacy that will continue to inspire golf enthusiasts and professionals alike. Even posthumously, Doug Sanders is a reminder of the power of tenacity and passion, proving that a sport is not merely about the trophies one wins, but the spirit with which one plays the game. His remarkable journey – from picking cotton in Cedartown fields to stirring the world of professional golf – stands as a testament to his indomitable spirit and unwavering devotion to the game of golf.