How Old Was Tom Watson When He Started Playing Golf? A Look At His Early Days

Tom Watson was 14 years old when he won the 1964 Kansas City Men’s Match Play event. This victory opened doors for him, leading to exhibition matches with his golfing idols, Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, over the next two years.

It’s important to remember that this was just the beginning of Tom Watson’s remarkable golfing journey. While he was already showing exceptional talent at such a young age, his passion for golf began much earlier. Watson picked up his first golf club at the tender age of five. His father, a passionate golfer himself, introduced him to the sport at their local course in Kansas City, Missouri. This early exposure sparked a love for the game that would shape his life. Young Tom was a natural, quickly mastering the fundamentals and developing a strong foundation for his future success. His talent was evident from the start, and it wasn’t long before he started winning junior tournaments and gaining recognition in the golfing community. This early success, coupled with his unwavering dedication, fueled his desire to become a professional golfer. The 1964 victory was a pivotal moment, propelling him toward a career that would see him achieve legendary status in the world of golf.