In Appreciation of Steve Stricker

Posted on | June 1, 2009 | 2 Comments | by Chris

There was a lot going on in sports over the weekend, but my favorite moment was Steve Stricker finding a way to get it done at Colonial.

After coming out 63/63 to grab the lead on the first two days, Stricker fell back on the weekend. It was painful to see him gag short putts early in the round on Sunday. But a magnificent chip in on 17 and some dicey play by the leaders set up a three way playoff. Thanks to Tim Clark pulling a seven-footer that would have sealed  his victory on the last, Stricker found his way into the playoff. Once there, he stuck his approach on the second playoff hole inside five feet and rolled the putt in for his fifth PGA Tour win.

I read some things  today calling Stricker the least-known best player on Tour. That is probably right. Despite his  five wins, Ryder Cup team membership and $18MM in winnings, the low-key Stricker is all but invisible to most golf fans. But I think it is important to note that this Wisconsinite has finished in the Top 10 in majors 10 times, and has four Top 5s and six Top 10s this season. He’s won the Comeback Player of the Year…twice! Moreover, he is ranked 12th in the World and has twice finished a season 4th in the World Rankings.

Most importantly, published accounts confirmed by my personal observation, show Stricker to be a kind and thoughtful  human being. Given all that, I just wanted to give the guy his props.

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