English · Hitchin, England · Born 10 January 1976English professional golfer known as one of Europe's most passionate Ryder Cup competitors, with two World Golf Championship titles.
Ian James Poulter was born on 10 January 1976 in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, England, and turned professional in 1995, developing a reputation early in his career for flamboyant dress sense before proving he had the game to match his style. Poulter attended his first Ryder Cup as a 17-year-old spectator in 1993, sleeping in a tent for three pounds a night after driving to The Belfry, and has since become one of the competition's most beloved and feared competitors, earning the nickname "The Postman" from his European teammates because he always delivers under pressure. Poulter compiled an extraordinary Ryder Cup record of 15 wins, 8 losses, and 2 halves across seven appearances, remaining unbeaten in singles play throughout his career and helping Europe win the trophy on five occasions, memorably declaring "if you cut me in half, it bleeds Ryder Cup." Poulter won 17 professional titles including two World Golf Championships, and reached a career-high world ranking of fifth in 2010, later joining the LIV Golf League and continuing to compete internationally as one of the most passionate team competitors the sport has produced.
Ryder Cup singles specialist, flamboyant style
How They Played
Aggressive putting, strong mental game under pressure, flamboyant dress sense
Lasting Impact
One of Europe's greatest Ryder Cup players, known for clutch performances in team competition
Career Honours
- WGC-Accenture Match Play 2010
- WGC-HSBC Champions 2012
- five winning Ryder Cup teams 2004-2018