Longtime PGA Tour Star and World Golf Hall of Famer Chi Chi Rodriguez Dies at 88
Juan "Chi Chi" Rodriguez, a legendary golfer and World Golf Hall of Famer, passed away on Thursday at the age of 88. Rodriguez was a beloved figure in the golf world, known for his charismatic personality, impressive skills on the course, and dedication to charity work.
Born in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, Rodriguez learned to play golf by hitting tin cans with sticks as a teenager. He went on to caddy and later joined the PGA Tour in 1960. Rodriguez won eight times on the PGA Tour and 22 times on the PGA Tour Champions before retiring in 2004. He was a member of the 1973 Ryder Cup team and was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1992.
Rodriguez was also a passionate advocate for charity and outreach, earning him the USGA’s Bob Jones Award in 1989 and induction into the World Humanitarian Sports Hall of Fame in 1994. His on-course antics, including his signature "matador routine" and dancing after making putts, made him a fan favorite.
In a statement, PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan praised Rodriguez’s passion for charity and outreach, saying, "A vibrant, colorful personality both on and off the golf course, he will be missed dearly by the PGA Tour and those whose lives he touched in his mission to give back."
After his playing days, Rodriguez spent time running his youth foundation in Florida and Puerto Rico, where he was a partner in a golf community project. He is survived by his longtime wife, Iwalani, and stepdaughter, Donnette.
Rodriguez’s legacy will be remembered through his impressive golf career, his dedication to charity work, and his infectious personality that brought joy to fans and fellow golfers alike.
