Elder, Lee
1934-2021 · Contribution: 1967-1990s
Professional golfer; the first Black golfer to compete in the Masters Tournament (1975)
Portraits are AI-generated interpretations, not photographs.
Impact on the world
Qualified for the Masters by winning the 1974 Monsanto Open and made his historic debut April 10, 1975; won four PGA Tour titles, became the first Black American to qualify for the Ryder Cup (1979), and won eight Senior PGA Tour events. Served as an honorary starter at the 2021 Masters.
Life & background
African-American golfer born Robert Lee Elder on July 14, 1934 in Dallas, TX. Honed his game on the UGA tour (mentored by Ted Rhodes) and faced death threats and segregation throughout his career. Died Nov 28, 2021 in Escondido, CA.
Sources
- PGA Tour; Masters/Augusta National
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