American · Dallas, USA · Born 1 December 1939The Merry Mex — six majors and one of golf's most entertaining personalities, who taught himself to play on a pitch-and-putt course.
Nicknamed "The Merry Mex," Lee Trevino taught himself to play golf as a boy on a pitch-and-putt course in Texas, working as a club caddie and hustler before breaking through to win the US Open in 1968 as a virtual unknown. He went on to win six major championships in total — two US Opens, two Open Championships and two PGA Championships — and famously beat Jack Nicklaus in a playoff at the 1971 US Open before beating him again at The Open weeks later. Struck by lightning during a rain delay at the 1975 Western Open, Trevino required back surgery that troubled him for the rest of his career, yet he remained one of the tour's most beloved and quotable personalities, later enjoying a hugely successful run on the Champions Tour.
Six major championships and colorful personality
He was struck by lightning during the 1975 Western Open and competed through the spinal injuries it caused for the rest of his career.
Did You Know?How They Played
Unorthodox swing with exceptional ball-striking ability
Lasting Impact
One of golf's greatest ball-strikers and most entertaining players
Career Honours
- US Open 2x
- The Open 2x
- PGA Championship 2x
American Athletes