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Bubba Watson
Bubba Watson
Bubba Watson
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Gerry Lester "Bubba" Watson Jr.[3][4] (born November 5, 1978) is an American professional golfer. He has two major championships, with victories at the Masters Tournament in 2012 and 2014,[5] and a total of 12 PGA Tour wins. In February 2015, Watson reached a career-high second place in the Official World Golf Ranking. Watson joined the LIV Golf League in 2022.

Key Information

One of few left-handed tour golfers, Watson has consistently been among the longest drivers; in 2007, he had an average drive of 315.2 yards (288.2 m). He can hit a ball over 350 yards (320 m) and up to 194 mph (312 km/h).[6][7] He has finished top of the driving distance statistics five times, during the 2006, 2007, 2008, 2012, and 2014 seasons.

Amateur career

[edit]

Watson was born and raised in Bagdad, Florida, near Pensacola. He played on the golf team at Milton High School, just after future PGA Tour members Heath Slocum and Boo Weekley.[8] Watson played golf for Faulkner State Community College in nearby Baldwin County, Alabama, where he was a junior college All-American. He transferred to the University of Georgia, the defending NCAA champions, and played for the Bulldogs in 2000 and 2001. As a junior, Watson helped lead the Bulldogs to the SEC title in 2000.[citation needed]

Professional career

[edit]

Watson turned professional in 2002 and joined the Nationwide Tour, where he played until 2005. He finished 21st on the Nationwide Tour's money list in 2005, making him the last player to qualify for the following year's PGA Tour. As a rookie in 2006, he earned $1,019,264 (90th overall) and led the PGA Tour in driving distance at 319.6 yards (292.2 m). His longest drive in professional competition was 424 yards (388 m) on the PGA Tour at the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational.

Watson played well at the 2007 U.S. Open. He was in the final group on Saturday after shooting rounds of 70-71 (+1) at Oakmont Country Club near Pittsburgh. Watson was one stroke off the lead after 36 holes but then slipped, shooting 74 (+4) in both the third and fourth rounds; he finished in a tie for fifth.

2010

[edit]

Watson claimed his first PGA Tour win on June 27, 2010, in Cromwell, Connecticut, at the Travelers Championship on the second hole of a sudden-death playoff with Corey Pavin and Scott Verplank.[9] Watson tearfully dedicated the win to his parents, specifically his father who was battling cancer.

Watson was runner-up to Martin Kaymer at the PGA Championship at Whistling Straits, falling in the three-hole aggregate playoff that included Dustin Johnson until he incurred a two-stroke penalty on the 72nd hole. Watson led the playoff after a birdie on the first hole, but Kaymer birdied the par-3 second hole to tie, effectively turning the playoff into sudden-death. Watson's second shot found the water hazard and Kaymer bested him by a stroke to win the major championship.

Watson had his own clothing line called "Bubba Golf" at the former Steve & Barry's. He was invited on The Ellen DeGeneres Show after he sent her a video of a golf trick shot he completed for her birthday.

2011

[edit]

On January 30, 2011, Watson won his second PGA Tour event, the Farmers Insurance Open, finishing one stroke ahead of runner-up Phil Mickelson.[10] Watson picked up his second win of the 2011 season and third career PGA Tour title on May 1 when he defeated Webb Simpson at the second playoff hole at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans.[11] Both players birdied the first playoff hole, with Watson holing a 12-footer; he birdied the next hole to win the tournament.

In July 2011, Watson provoked controversy by criticizing the Alstom Open de France on the European Tour, in which he was playing under a sponsor's exemption. He indicated after his first round that he would not be playing any further events on the European Tour, and complained after his second round about security and organization at the tournament.[12]

Watson took part in the Long Drive Contest for charity at the Hyundai Tournament of Champions alongside Dustin Johnson and Robert Garrigus. He finished in second place, with a longest drive of 370 yards (338 m) behind a drive of over 400 yards (366 m) by Jamie Sadlowski.

2012

[edit]
Watson at Schüco Open, 2012

Watson began the year with three top-5 finishes in seven events, including finishing second at the WGC-Cadillac Championship.[13]

Masters win

[edit]

Watson's first major championship win came at the Masters. He began the final round at six-under-par, three strokes off the lead, held by Peter Hanson. On the back nine, Watson bogeyed the par-3 12th hole to return to even par for the round. He then recorded four consecutive birdies for a round of 68 (-4) and tied for the 72-hole lead with fourth-round playing partner Louis Oosthuizen at ten-under-par. In the sudden-death playoff, Oosthuizen and Watson both made par on the uphill 18th hole. On the next hole, the downhill 10th, both drove their tee shots towards the woods to the right of the hole. Oosthuizen's landed in the rough 220 yards (200 m) away, while Watson's ball landed deep in the woods on pine straw, 164 yards (150 m) from the pin without a clear shot to the green. Watson executed a miraculous recovery shot with 40 yards of hook on his 52-degree gap wedge and stopped the ball within fifteen feet of the hole. Oosthuizen's approach shot landed short of the green, but he chipped past the hole and narrowly missed his lengthy putt for par. Watson trickled his birdie putt a foot past the hole, took his time on the very short par putt, then made it for the emotional victory.[14][15] The win took him to a world ranking of four, a career-high at the time.[16]

Rest of 2012

[edit]

Following his Masters win, Watson began to struggle. He missed the cut at the Memorial Tournament and the U.S. Open. A week after the U.S. Open, he finished tied for second at the Travelers Championship. A month later, he played Open Championship, the third major of the year. While shooting a first round of −3 to tie him at third place, he never advanced much after that, finishing tied for 23rd place. In the final major of the year, the PGA Championship, Watson tied for 11th. He finished the year with one win, six top-5 finishes, seven top-10 finishes and three missed cuts.[13]

2013

[edit]

Watson began the season playing the Hyundai Tournament of Champions, where he finished tied for fourth place, and reached the quarterfinals in the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship. In the subsequent World Golf Championship event, the WGC-Cadillac Championship, he began very strong with rounds of 66 and 69, but finished with rounds of 71 and 75 and tied for 18th place.

After finishing tied 14th place in the Arnold Palmer Invitational, he returned to the Masters as the defending champion. Never in contention in the tournament, he finished 50th after a final round of 77. Watson tied for 37th at The Players Championship. On the second major of the year, the U.S. Open, he finished with a solid 71 in the first round, just four shots off the lead, but a second round score of 76 left him out of contention, and he tied for 32nd. At the Travelers Championship he took the lead after a second round of 67, but in the final round, leading by one with three to play, he triple-bogeyed the par-3 16th and finished two shots back in 4th place.

Tying for 30th at the Greenbrier Classic, he then played in the third major of the year, The Open Championship. After two solid rounds of 70 and 73, he shot 77 in the third round, and tied for 32nd.

2014

[edit]

At the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Watson held the lead for most of the tournament, but he finished runner-up to Kevin Stadler.

Watson earned his fifth career PGA Tour victory—and his first since the 2012 Masters—at the 2014 Northern Trust Open at Riviera Country Club. He shot back-to-back 64s over the weekend to defeat runner-up Dustin Johnson by two strokes.[17] The victory raised him to 14 in the Official World Golf Ranking. He followed that win with two more strong finishes—a ninth-place tie in the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship and a second-place tie in the WGC-Cadillac Championship.[18] Those performances elevated him from 14 to 12 in the world ranking.[19]

Second Masters win

[edit]

Watson won the 2014 Masters by three shots, with a score of 280 (−8).[20] He entered the final round tied for the lead with 20-year-old Masters rookie Jordan Spieth. Playing together in the final pairing, Spieth birdied the seventh hole for a two-stroke lead over Watson. However, the momentum turned on the par-5 eighth hole. Spieth had a birdie putt, but ended up three-putting for bogey while Watson birdied to pull into a first-place tie.[21] Then, on the ninth hole, Watson birdied again while Spieth bogeyed, and the four-shot swing over two holes gave Watson a lead that he never relinquished in a win over Spieth and Jonas Blixt.[22] With the win, Watson became the 17th player to win the Masters two or more times.[23] The win moved him again to number four in the Official World Golf Ranking.[19]

2015

[edit]

Watson won the Travelers Championship to move him to third in the Official World Golf Ranking. He garnered his second victory in 2015 by winning the unofficial Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas, besting fellow American Patrick Reed by three strokes.

2016

[edit]

Prior to the Waste Management Phoenix Open in early February, Watson caused a bit of controversy after publicly admitting his dislike for the course, TPC Scottsdale.[24] As a result, he was jeered by fans for the majority of the tournament, later criticizing the media for "turning his words around".[25] Two weeks later though, he returned to the winner's circle after winning the Northern Trust Open at Riviera for a second time in three years, seeing off the challenge of Adam Scott and Jason Kokrak to win by one shot on 15-under-par.[26]

2017

[edit]

Watson did not chalk a win during the 2017 season, and missed the cut at three of the year's four majors (his only cut a T27 at The Open Championship). He had five top-10 finishes with more than $1.3 million in tour earnings.[1]

2018

[edit]

The 2018 season started with a T7 at the QBE Shootout in December 2017 marking the best of his first six starts. Watson returned to the winner's circle with a 12-under finish at the Genesis Open in February, his third victory at this tournament (2014, 2016), all at Riviera. His trifecta at the Genesis (previously known as the Los Angeles Open, Northern Trust Open, and Nissan Open) makes him only the fifth to win this long-standing event at least three times, along with Ben Hogan, Arnold Palmer, Lloyd Mangrum, and Macdonald Smith. On March 25, he gained his eleventh tour win at the WGC-Dell Match Play event in Austin, Texas, with a winner's share of $1.7 million.[1] On June 24, 2018, he won again at the Travelers Championship winning $1.26 million at TPC River Highlands. This was his third career victory at the Travelers tournament (2010, 2015).[27]

In September 2018, Watson qualified for the U.S. team participating in the 2018 Ryder Cup. Europe defeated the U.S. team 17 1/2 to 10 1/2. Watson went 1–2–0. He lost his singles match against Henrik Stenson.[28]

2022

[edit]

On July 29, 2022, Watson announced that he had joined LIV Golf as a non-playing team captain for the remainder of the season while he recovered from a torn meniscus, with the intention of returning to play from 2023.[29] On August 10, he announced that he had resigned from the PGA Tour.[30]

Personal life

[edit]

Watson's father, Gerry Sr.,[3] died on October 15, 2010, of throat cancer.[31][32] His mother is Molly Marie Watson and he has a sister, Melinda Watson Conner.[4] Watson was nicknamed by his father after the former professional American football player Bubba Smith.[8]

Bubba Watson's wife, Angie (née Angela Ball), is a 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) Canadian whom he met at Georgia while he was on the golf team and she was on the women's basketball team.[3] They were married in September 2004.[33] In 2009, she was diagnosed with an enlarged pituitary gland, which accounts for her height.[34]

Unable to have a child naturally, various family issues, including the illness and death of Watson's father in 2010, kept them from attempting to adopt until 2011–12.[15] In March 2012, one week after a potential adoption fell through at the last moment,[15] Watson and his wife adopted a one-month-old baby boy named Caleb.[35] In late 2014, the Watsons adopted a baby girl.

Watson is a member of the "Golf Boys", a boy band consisting of Watson, Ben Crane, Rickie Fowler, and Hunter Mahan. Their single "Oh Oh Oh" is currently on YouTube. The video was produced by Farmers Insurance Group. Farmers donates $1000 to charity for every 100,000 views the video gets.[36]

In 2011, he made a humorous appearance in the song "Michael Jackson" by Christian hip hop artist Andy Mineo on the album Formerly Known.[37][38] He was featured in the song "Ima Just Do It" by KB, another Christian hip hop artist, on the album Tomorrow We Live.[39] His prototype Golf Cart Hovercraft, the BW1, YouTube video has earned more than 8 million views.[40]

Watson is a committed Christian who speaks openly about the importance of faith in his life.[41]

Watson purchased the mansion in the Isleworth community of Windermere, Florida, that was previously owned by Tiger Woods.[42] In 2013, he was added to the list of Great Floridians by Governor Rick Scott.[43][44]

Watson purchased a General Lee car from the television series The Dukes of Hazzard at auction for $110,000 in 2012.[45] Following the Charleston church shooting in June 2015, display of the Confederate flag — which is featured on the car's roof — became the subject of renewed controversy. Watson responded by saying he would paint over the flag with the American flag.[46]

In 2015, Watson moved to Pensacola, where he has become very involved in the community. Among other ventures, Watson opened an ice cream store, purchased a part ownership in the Pensacola Blue Wahoos Minor League Baseball team,[47][48] and purchased a Chevrolet dealership in nearby Milton, Florida.[49] Watson has made significant donations to the Studer Family Children's Hospital in Pensacola.[50]

Professional wins (15)

[edit]

PGA Tour wins (12)

[edit]
Legend
Major championships (2)
World Golf Championships (2)
Other PGA Tour (8)
No. Date Tournament Winning score To par Margin of
victory		 Runner(s)-up
1 Jun 27, 2010 Travelers Championship 65-68-67-66=266 −14 Playoff United States Corey Pavin, United States Scott Verplank
2 Jan 30, 2011 Farmers Insurance Open 71-65-69-67=272 −16 1 stroke United States Phil Mickelson
3 May 1, 2011 Zurich Classic of New Orleans 66-68-70-69=273 −15 Playoff United States Webb Simpson
4 Apr 8, 2012 Masters Tournament 69-71-70-68=278 −10 Playoff South Africa Louis Oosthuizen
5 Feb 16, 2014 Northern Trust Open 70-71-64-64=269 −15 2 strokes United States Dustin Johnson
6 Apr 13, 2014 Masters Tournament (2) 69-68-74-69=280 −8 3 strokes Sweden Jonas Blixt, United States Jordan Spieth
7 Nov 9, 2014 WGC-HSBC Champions 71-67-69-70=277 −11 Playoff South Africa Tim Clark
8 Jun 28, 2015 Travelers Championship (2) 62-67-68-67=264 −16 Playoff England Paul Casey
9 Feb 21, 2016 Northern Trust Open (2) 66-68-67-68=269 −15 1 stroke United States Jason Kokrak, Australia Adam Scott
10 Feb 18, 2018 Genesis Open (3) 68-70-65-69=272 −12 2 strokes United States Tony Finau, United States Kevin Na
11 Mar 25, 2018 WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play 7 and 6 United States Kevin Kisner
12 Jun 24, 2018 Travelers Championship (3) 70-63-67-63=263 −17 3 strokes England Paul Casey, United States Stewart Cink,
United States J. B. Holmes, United States Beau Hossler

PGA Tour playoff record (5–1)

No. Year Tournament Opponent(s) Result
1 2010 Travelers Championship United States Corey Pavin, United States Scott Verplank Won with par on second extra hole
Pavin eliminated by par on first hole
2 2010 PGA Championship Germany Martin Kaymer Lost three-hole aggregate playoff;
Kaymer: E (4-2-5=11),
Watson: +1 (3-3-6=12)
3 2011 Zurich Classic of New Orleans United States Webb Simpson Won with birdie on second extra hole
4 2012 Masters Tournament South Africa Louis Oosthuizen Won with par on second extra hole
5 2014 WGC-HSBC Champions South Africa Tim Clark Won with birdie on first extra hole
6 2015 Travelers Championship England Paul Casey Won with birdie on second extra hole

NGA Hooters Tour wins (1)

[edit]
No. Date Tournament Winning score To par Margin of
victory		 Runner-up
1 Mar 14, 2004 Michelob Ultra Orange Park Open 67-68-64-66=265 −23 4 strokes United States Will MacKenzie

Other wins (2)

[edit]
No. Date Tournament Winning score To par Margin of
victory		 Runner(s)-up
1 Jun 24, 2008 CVS Caremark Charity Classic
(with Colombia Camilo Villegas) 		61-34=95* −15 Playoff United States Billy Andrade and United States Davis Love III,
United States Paul Goydos and United States Tim Herron,
United States Rocco Mediate and United States Brandt Snedeker
2 Dec 6, 2015 Hero World Challenge 67-67-63-66=263 −25 3 strokes United States Patrick Reed

*Note: The 2008 CVS Caremark Charity Classic was stopped after 28 holes due to heavy rain.

Other playoff record (1–1)

No. Year Tournament Opponent(s) Result
1 2008 CVS Caremark Charity Classic
(with Colombia Camilo Villegas) 		United States Billy Andrade and United States Davis Love III,
United States Paul Goydos and United States Tim Herron,
United States Rocco Mediate and United States Brandt Snedeker 		Won by 1 stroke in three-hole aggregate playoff
2 2014 PGA Grand Slam of Golf Germany Martin Kaymer Lost to birdie on first extra hole

Playoff record

[edit]

PGA Tour of Australasia playoff record (0–1)

No. Year Tournament Opponent Result
1 2005 MasterCard Masters Australia Robert Allenby Lost to par on first extra hole

Nationwide Tour playoff record (0–1)

No. Year Tournament Opponents Result
1 2004 Lake Erie Charity Classic New Zealand Michael Long, United States Kevin Stadler Stadler won with par on fourth extra hole
Long eliminated by par on first hole

Major championships

[edit]

Wins (2)

[edit]
Year Championship 54 holes Winning score Margin Runner(s)-up
2012 Masters Tournament 3 shot deficit −10 (69-71-70-68=278) Playoff1 South Africa Louis Oosthuizen
2014 Masters Tournament (2) Tied for lead −8 (69-68-74-69=280) 3 strokes Sweden Jonas Blixt, United States Jordan Spieth

1Defeated Louis Oosthuizen in a sudden-death playoff: Watson (4-4), Oosthuizen (4-5).

Results timeline

[edit]

Results not in chronological order in 2020.

Tournament 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
Masters Tournament T20 42
U.S. Open CUT T5 CUT T18
The Open Championship CUT
PGA Championship CUT 70 CUT
Tournament 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018
Masters Tournament T38 1 T50 1 T38 T37 CUT T5
U.S. Open T63 CUT T32 CUT CUT T51 CUT CUT
The Open Championship CUT T30 T23 T32 CUT CUT T39 T27 CUT
PGA Championship 2 T26 T11 CUT T64 T21 T60 CUT CUT
Tournament 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025
Masters Tournament T12 57 T26 T39 CUT CUT T14
PGA Championship CUT T71 80 T30
U.S. Open CUT T31 T50
The Open Championship T51 NT
  Win
  Top 10
  Did not play

CUT = missed the half-way cut
T = tied
NT = No tournament due to COVID-19 pandemic

Summary

[edit]
Tournament Wins 2nd 3rd Top-5 Top-10 Top-25 Events Cuts made
Masters Tournament 2 0 0 3 3 6 17 14
PGA Championship 0 1 0 1 1 3 16 10
U.S. Open 0 0 0 1 1 2 15 7
The Open Championship 0 0 0 0 0 1 11 6
Totals 2 1 0 5 5 12 59 37
  • Most consecutive cuts made – 9 (2019 Open – 2022 PGA)
  • Longest streak of top-10s – 1 (five times)

Results in The Players Championship

[edit]
Tournament 2007 2008 2009
The Players Championship CUT CUT T37
Tournament 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
The Players Championship CUT T45 T37 T48 T42 T43 CUT T57 T56
Tournament 2020 2021 2022
The Players Championship C CUT T68
  Did not play

CUT = missed the halfway cut
"T" indicates a tie for a place
C = Canceled after the first round due to the COVID-19 pandemic

World Golf Championships

[edit]

Wins (2)

[edit]
Year Championship 54 holes Winning score Margin Runner-up
2014 WGC-HSBC Champions 3 shot deficit −11 (71-67-69-70=277) Playoff South Africa Tim Clark
2018 WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play n/a 7 and 6 United States Kevin Kisner

Results timeline

[edit]

Results not in chronological order before 2015.

Tournament 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Championship 72 2 T18 T2 3 2 T38 T9 T27 T18 T54
Match Play 4 R32 R16 R16 T17 T28 R16 1 T40 NT1 R16 T26
Invitational T22 T21 T19 T27 T37 2 T14 T17 T31 T9 T25
Champions 33 T8 1 T35 T54 T28 NT1 NT1 NT1

1Cancelled due to COVID-19 pandemic

  Win
  Top 10
  Did not play

QF, R16, R32, R64 = Round in which player lost in match play
NT = no tournament
"T" = tied
Note that the Championship and Invitational were discontinued from 2022.

PGA Tour career summary

[edit]
Season Starts Cuts
made		 Wins
(Majors)		 2nd 3rd Top-10 Top-25 Best
finish		 Earnings
($)		 Money
list rank[51]
2002 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 CUT 0 n/a
2004 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 CUT 0 n/a
2006 27 15 0 0 1 3 6 T3 1,019,264 90
2007 26 14 0 1 0 5 9 T2 1,654,807 55
2008 29 19 0 1 0 3 7 T2 1,533,523 58
2009 24 13 0 1 0 2 9 T2 1,430,244 60
2010 22 16 1 2 1 4 8 1 3,198,998 15
2011 22 19 2 0 0 3 8 1 3,477,811 16
2012 19 16 1 (1) 2 0 7 16 1 4,644,997 5
2013 21 18 0 0 0 3 10 4/T4 1,759,276 44
2014 21 18 2 (1) 3 1 8 11 1 6,336,978 2
2015 19 17 2 3 2 10 14 1 6,876,797 3
2016 19 18 1 1 0 4 9 1 3,492,842 18
2017 22 14 0 0 0 4 6 T5 1,223,129 91
2018 24 19 3 0 0 6 8 1 5,793,748 6
2019 19 14 0 0 0 3 6 1 1,558,014 71
2020 20 13 0 0 1 3 7 T3 1,565,323 53
2021 22 17 0 0 0 5 9 T4 1,873,381 69
2022 9 6 0 0 0 1 2 T4 513,538 -
2023 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 CUT - -
Career* 368 266 12 (2) 14 6 74 145 1 48,049,778 20[52]

* As of the 2023 season

U.S. national team appearances

[edit]

Professional

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Bubba Watson

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Gerry Lester "Bubba" Watson Jr. (born November 5, 1978) is an American professional golfer who competes left-handed. Watson turned professional in 2002 after attending Faulkner State Community College and joined the full-time in 2006. He amassed twelve victories, highlighted by two wins in 2012—clinchng the playoff with a hooked wedge shot from pine straw—and 2014, where he finished three strokes ahead of the field. In 2014, Watson also captured the championship, earning over $10 million in season-long points and bonuses. Renowned for prodigious driving distance—often exceeding 320 yards—and inventive recovery shots, he peaked at world number two in 2015. Watson transitioned to in 2022, captaining the Rangegoats GC team and continuing to compete in team and individual formats amid the league's emphasis on shorter fields and guaranteed purses.

Early Life and Amateur Career

Childhood and Introduction to Golf

Gerry Lester "Bubba" Watson Jr. was born on November 5, 1978, in the small town of Bagdad, , near Pensacola, to parents Gerry Watson Sr., a U.S. Army veteran, and Molly Marie Watson. His father, after whom he was named, bestowed the nickname "Bubba" in homage to the football player , reflecting a family environment shaped by military discipline and modest rural life. Watson has a sister, , and grew up in a household where became a central family activity, with his mother later caddying for him in early competitions. Watson's introduction to golf occurred at age six, when his encouraged his —a weekend er—to include him on outings rather than leaving him behind. Gerry Sr. provided initial guidance on fundamentals, handing Watson his first clubs and teaching grip and basic swings without formal instruction, fostering a self-taught style that emphasized instinctive shot-shaping from an early age. This approach, influenced by his father's no-nonsense demeanor, led Watson to practice relentlessly on local courses like Tanglewood Golf Club in nearby Milton, where he honed an unorthodox left-handed swing by experimenting with curves and power, often mimicking throws from his father's preferred sport. By age eight, he entered his first tournaments, competing locally and demonstrating precocious talent without structured lessons. The Watson family's emphasis on extended beyond recreation; it served as bonding time amid Gerry Sr.'s military background, instilling resilience in young , who faced a disciplinarian father during practices. This early immersion, free from coaching interference, allowed Watson to develop creative problem-solving on the course, a trait rooted in Bagdad's limited facilities and his unsupervised experimentation with shots. His father's initial reluctance—favoring —gave way to support, shaping Watson's independent mindset before high school competitions at Milton High School, where he followed in the footsteps of future pros like .

Family Influence and Early Development

Gerry Lester "Bubba" Watson Jr. was born on November 5, 1978, in the small town of , to Gerry Watson Sr., a veteran and who later worked at a local power plant, and Molly Watson, who did not play golf but occasionally caddied for her son. He has an older sister, Melinda, who also participated in golf, contributing to a family environment where the sport became a shared activity. Watson's father introduced him to at age six after his insisted on taking him to a local course, where the head pro provided a cut-down nine-iron suited to his natural left-handed grip. Initially favoring —having played himself—Gerry Sr. shifted focus to support his son's evident aptitude, serving as his sole coach and confidant without enrolling him in formal lessons. By age eight, Watson acquired his first full set of clubs and began regular play, with his parents fostering his interest through consistent access to courses rather than intense pressure. Early development emphasized self-reliance and creativity, as Watson practiced extensively around the family home using limited equipment, developing an unconventional swing mechanics rooted in rather than . His father's military background instilled a rigorous and distrust of external advice, reinforcing Watson's independent approach and drive for improvement—he achieved sub-70 rounds by age twelve and entered junior tournaments soon after starting competitively. This paternal guidance, marked by and a against complacency, laid the foundation for Watson's resilience amid early challenges in a demanding precision.

Amateur Achievements and Turning Professional

Watson's collegiate career began at Faulkner State Community College in , where he competed for two years and earned junior college All-American honors for his performance. He transferred to the , joining the Bulldogs' golf team as a sophomore in 1999. During his junior year in 2000, Watson contributed significantly to the team's victory in the (SEC) championship. In 2001, still an amateur, Watson won the Georgia State Amateur Championship, defeating competitors in to claim the title. Opting to forgo his senior year at Georgia, Watson turned in 2002 at age 23, subsequently joining the Nationwide Tour (now ) to begin his professional career.

Professional Golf Career

Entry onto PGA Tour and Early Struggles (2006-2009)

Watson earned his PGA Tour card for the 2006 season by finishing 21st on the 2005 Nationwide Tour money list with $202,437 in earnings, marking the threshold for promotion to the top circuit. As a rookie, he debuted at the 2006 Sony Open in Hawaii, where he recorded a fourth-place finish after hitting a 398-yard drive, showcasing his prodigious length off the tee. He led the PGA Tour in driving distance that year at 319.6 yards per drive, but his overall performance reflected the challenges of adapting to professional demands, finishing 90th on the money list with $1,019,264 in earnings across 24 starts. In 2007, Watson contended at the U.S. Open at , shooting opening rounds of 70 and 71 to position himself in the final group for Saturday play, though he faded later in the tournament. He also dueled closely during the Shell Houston Open, highlighting his potential in contention but underscoring inconsistency, as he failed to convert strong positions into victories. These near-misses exemplified early career patterns where raw power and occasional flashes of form were offset by erratic ball-striking and putting, limiting top finishes. From 2008 to 2009, Watson maintained full playing status through solid but unspectacular results, accumulating multiple top-20 finishes without breaking through for a win, which eluded him until 2010. His prolonged winless streak amid frequent missed cuts and to sustain momentum in majors or key events pointed to struggles with course and mental resilience, later attributed in part to undiagnosed anxiety and ADHD that affected focus under pressure. Despite leading the tour in distance again in subsequent years, these factors contributed to a grinding effort to establish consistency, as he ranked outside the top 50 in earnings during parts of this period.

Breakthrough and Major Successes (2010-2014)

Watson's breakthrough on the occurred in 2010 with his first victory at the on June 27, defeating and in a sudden-death playoff after birdieing the second extra hole. This win, achieved with a final-round 66 that included birdies on five of his last seven holes, marked the end of a prolonged search for success following his 2006 professional debut and elevated him into the top 50 in the . In 2011, Watson secured two additional titles, beginning with the at Torrey Pines in January, where a final-round 67 gave him a one-shot victory over . He followed this with a playoff win at the in May, holing a 3-foot birdie putt on the second extra hole to edge after overcoming a three-shot deficit in the final eight holes of regulation. These successes propelled him to a career-high world ranking of No. 11 by year's end and contributed to his selection for the U.S. team. Watson's major championship debut came at the 2012 , where he finished regulation tied with at 10-under par. In the sudden-death playoff, after pars on the first hole, Watson executed a renowned 155-yard wedge shot from deep pine straw right of the 10th fairway—clearing trees and landing 10 feet from the pin—to set up a birdie that secured the victory on the second playoff hole. This first major title, his fourth win overall, boosted him to a peak world ranking of No. 4. Following a winless 2013 season, Watson rebounded in 2014 with victories at the Northern Trust Open in February—closing with an 8-under 64 for a two-shot margin—and his second Masters in April, leading wire-to-wire and finishing three strokes ahead of and with a total of 8-under 280. These triumphs, including back-to-back majors, affirmed his status as a top-tier player capable of leveraging his prodigious distance and shot-shaping ability under pressure.

Mid-Career Peaks and Injuries (2015-2021)

Following his second victory in 2014, Watson attained his career-high ranking of second in the on February 23, 2015, propelled by a T14 finish at the Northern Trust Open. This peak reflected consistent strong performances, including multiple top-10 finishes in majors and events during early 2015. Although he secured no win that year, his ball-striking prowess and driving distance maintained his elite status among competitors. In 2016, Watson claimed victory at the Northern Trust Open on February 21, edging out by one stroke to secure his ninth title. This win at highlighted his resilience in pressure situations, closing with steady play despite challenging conditions. The period marked a continuation of his major contention, with notable finishes such as T5 at . However, 2017 saw no victories, signaling an emerging plateau amid increasing competition. Watson's form surged in 2018, yielding three triumphs. He won the Genesis Open on February 18 by two strokes over and , closing with a 69 for his tenth career title. Weeks later, on March 25, he dominated the WGC-Dell Technologies , defeating 7-and-6 in the final for his eleventh win. Culminating the streak, Watson rallied at the on June 24, shooting a 7-under 63 to overcome a six-shot deficit and win by three, his third in the event and twelfth overall. These successes underscored his shot-shaping creativity and recovery ability. Post-2018, Watson encountered performance declines without major physical injuries documented in during 2015-2021. Instead, challenges, including anxiety and ADHD, intensified by 2017-2021, significantly impaired his play. He revealed dropping to 162 pounds from severe episodes, fearing death, which disrupted focus and consistency. These issues, rather than , contributed to winless seasons and prompted for mental wellness in . No prolonged withdrawals from physical ailments were reported, distinguishing this era from later knee surgery in 2022.

Transition to LIV Golf (2022)

In July 2022, Bubba Watson, a two-time Masters champion whose competitive performance had declined amid injuries, announced his decision to join , the Saudi Arabia-backed professional league launched earlier that year. The announcement came on July 29, positioning Watson as a non-playing captain for the league's international team, with plans for on-course participation once recovered from a torn that sidelined him for the remainder of the 2022 season. Watson cited the league's team format and potential to expand 's appeal, particularly to younger audiences, as key factors; he noted that his 10-year-old son, previously uninterested in , began watching events due to LIV's entertainment-oriented structure. He also expressed enthusiasm for building a team business from scratch and fostering positive changes in the sport, describing LIV as "fun" and "energetic." Watson's move followed a wave of high-profile defections to LIV, which offered guaranteed contracts and a 54-hole, no-cut format contrasting the PGA Tour's merit-based model. Although he had not yet competed in a LIV event at the time of his announcement, the PGA Tour's policy barred members from participating in unauthorized tournaments, prompting Watson to resign his membership on August 11, 2022, ahead of any formal suspension. This resignation preserved his standing temporarily but relinquished rights to PGA Tour events, including majors' exemptions tied to Tour status, though past major wins secured ongoing invitations to the Masters and . The transition marked a shift for Watson, who had earned over $25 million in prize money but faced form inconsistencies post-2014, toward LIV's emphasis on longevity and reduced physical demands suitable for a 43-year-old player. His initial LIV role involved off-course captaincy for what became the RangeGoats GC team in 2023, reflecting the league's hybrid of and franchise development. Critics, including some in mainstream media, viewed such moves as prioritizing financial incentives over traditional , but Watson maintained the decision aligned with growing the game through innovative formats rather than solely monetary gain.

LIV Golf Participation and Recent Performance (2023-2025)

Watson served as captain of RangeGoats GC in starting in 2023, leading a roster that included players such as , , and , with the team competing in the league's team format alongside individual stroke-play events. The RangeGoats participated in all regular-season events each year, advancing to playoff brackets in 2025, though specific team championships were not achieved during this period. Watson's role emphasized creative shot-making and leadership, aligning with his established playing style, while the league's no-cut format allowed consistent participation despite form fluctuations. In 2023, Watson recorded one top-10 finish across the 14-event season, culminating in 36th place in the individual standings. His performances included a third-place standing after two rounds at Tulsa but were otherwise middling, with frequent finishes outside the top 30, reflecting ongoing adaptation to the league's conditions and team dynamics. Watson's 2024 season marked a low point, with no top-10 finishes in 14 events and a 53rd-place individual ranking, just five spots from relegation. He self-assessed his play as warranting an "F" grade, attributing struggles to inconsistent form amid the league's competitive field. Despite this, he remained committed to RangeGoats, participating fully without absences. The 2025 season saw a resurgence, with Watson finishing 11th in individual standings after 13 of 14 events, earning 78.99 points and leading the league in eagles. Key results included a T12 at LIV Riyadh, T7 in Mexico City, T4 in Virginia, T8 in Indianapolis, and a runner-up at LIV Golf UK, where he shot 8-under par over six holes in the final round, featuring two eagles from drivers off the deck. This improvement followed equipment changes, including a new putter and caddie, boosting confidence after prior years' difficulties. A finger surgery in October 2025 likely ended his campaign prematurely, though he expressed readiness for 2026.

Playing Style and Technique

Unconventional Swing Mechanics

Bubba Watson's is characterized by several unconventional elements that deviate from traditional instructional models, yet contribute to his exceptional distance and shot-shaping ability. His takeaway begins with the clubhead moving outside the hands while his head shifts upward rapidly, imparting a steep initial plane that later flattens during the downswing. This motion allows for extensive wrist hinge and positions the club on a shallower path for impact, enabling powerful draws. At address, Watson adopts a wide stance with pronounced knee flex and weight biased toward his rear foot, promoting stability for his aggressive swing. He employs a strong grip, with both hands rotated significantly to the left (for a left-handed player), which facilitates manipulation of the clubface to curve the ball, particularly for hooks around obstacles—a hallmark of his creativity in tournaments like the 2012 Masters. Through impact, Watson remains notably low to the ball longer than most players, leveraging extended hand action while maintaining body rotation for consistency. This prolonged connection, combined with a classic release driven more by torso than isolated wrist flip, underpins his elite ball-striking despite the unorthodox appearance. Critics note the swing's reliance on athleticism to synchronize its moving parts, but its efficacy is evidenced by two major championships and consistent performance.

Equipment Choices and Innovations

Bubba Watson has maintained a long-term equipment partnership with Ping, using their clubs across his professional to accommodate his left-handed swing and emphasis on shot-shaping. His driver choices typically feature low-spin models adjusted for his natural fade, such as the Ping G430 LST (9° loft, set to 7.9°) paired with a Project X HZRDUS Smoke Black RDX 60-gram shaft, enabling distances exceeding 300 yards while prioritizing control over raw power. This setup evolved from earlier icons like the custom pink-shafted Ping G20 used to win the 2012 Masters, where the 8.5° head with a 44.5-inch Grafalloy BiCore shaft (a graphite-steel hybrid design for stability) allowed extreme hooks, including his famous dogleg shot on the 10th hole. Watson's irons reflect a preference for players' blades customized for his aggressive ball flight, sticking with Ping S55 models (3-PW) since their 2012 introduction, featuring 10° open faces, adjusted lies, and lofts to promote his preferred draw or fade trajectories. These muscle-back irons, weighing around D4 swingweight, suit his high swing speed (over 120 mph with ) but demand precision, contrasting with cavity-back alternatives favored by many power hitters. For fairway woods, he opts for versatile Ping G430 Max (15° 3-wood with Project X HZRDUS Smoke Black RDX 80 shaft) and occasionally a 5-wood, avoiding hybrids in favor of woods for low punches and high launches. Wedges include Ping Glide 4.0 series (50°-60° lofts) with custom grinds for versatility, while his putter is a Ping PLD Anser D milled for reduced toe hang and a heavier head to match his arc stroke. Innovations in Watson's setup center on extensive customizations to enhance feel and control, including routine and loft bending—up to 10° face opening on irons—to counteract his torque-heavy swing without altering technique. The pink shaft aesthetic, originating with True Temper's Project X prototypes in the early , not only became a branding signature but also improved visibility for alignment, influencing Ping's limited-edition releases like the G30 Bubba Watson model. In , switching from Titleist Pro V1x to Volvik S4 balls (a softer, lower-spinning urethane cover) correlated with three wins, as the reduced side spin aided his curve-heavy game, demonstrating data-driven adaptation over tradition. Grips remain Golf Pride MCC for tackiness, and he forgoes gloves for bare-handed feel on wedges. These choices underscore a of equipment as an extension of his intuitive, non-conforming style rather than off-the-shelf conformity.

Strengths, Weaknesses, and Adaptations

Bubba Watson's primary strengths lie in his exceptional driving distance and creative shot-making capabilities. He consistently ranks among the PGA Tour's longest hitters, with a career average driving distance exceeding 310 yards and clubhead speeds reaching 122 using a 44.5-inch driver. His self-taught swing enables unparalleled flight control, allowing him to shots with extreme curvature—often hooking or fading the 40 yards or more—which has been pivotal in victories like his 2012 and 2014 Masters triumphs. This instinctive adaptability to unconventional lies and wind conditions stems from random practice that hones quick shot improvisation. Watson's weaknesses are most evident in his putting and proficiency. He has historically ranked near the bottom in strokes gained putting, never better than 82nd on the , contributing to inconsistencies in closing out tournaments. Around-the-green performance has also lagged, with rankings as low as 174th in , often forcing reliance on power rather than finesse in tight situations. These deficiencies were stark in seasons like 2017, where poor greens in (161st) and overall form led to a significant world ranking drop. To counter these, Watson has made targeted adaptations, including equipment innovations and subtle technique tweaks without overhauling his core swing. In 2018, switching from the Pro V1x to the Volvik S4 improved spin control and greens hit, sparking a resurgence with multiple top finishes. He maintains an unchanged, feel-based swing despite injuries like back issues, prioritizing natural evolution over mechanical fixes, which preserves his power edge. Recent putting adjustments, such as firmer strokes, have addressed yips-like tendencies, aiding performances. These pragmatic shifts underscore his resilience, leveraging strengths to mitigate vulnerabilities amid career transitions.

Personal Life

Marriage and Family

Bubba Watson married Angela "Angie" Watson on December 31, 2004, after meeting through mutual connections in Christian circles, including acquaintances tied to the community. Angie, a former professional player who briefly appeared in the WNBA with the in 2000, shares Watson's evangelical Christian faith, which has shaped their decisions. Unable to conceive naturally, the Watsons pursued after multiple failed attempts, including three near-misses for their first child where birth mothers changed plans. They adopted their son, , in early 2012 when he was one month old; two weeks later, Watson won the , an event Angie attended postpartum from the adoption process. In 2014, they adopted their daughter, Dakota, finalizing the process while Watson competed abroad, with Angie handling initial arrangements including a meeting with Dakota's birth mother before her C-section delivery. The family resides primarily in , prioritizing adoption advocacy through partnerships like the Jockey Being Family Foundation, which supports post-adoption needs for families. Watson has publicly credited fatherhood with transforming his perspective, emphasizing the role of faith in overcoming adoption hurdles.

Christian Faith and Philanthropy

Bubba Watson has publicly identified as a Christian since recommitting to his in the early , crediting it with providing guidance amid personal and professional challenges. He described meeting his , Candie, in as a pivotal moment that prompted deeper engagement with ; she encouraged discussions about church and , leading him to prioritize a "Christ-centered relationship" over his golf-focused mindset. Following his first Masters victory on April 8, 2012, Watson emphasized his unashamed stance, stating, "There's people who want to put down . I try to tell them loves you," and attributing success to divine influence rather than personal achievement. He has since shared in interviews that regular reading strengthened his beliefs, helping him navigate anxiety and struggles by shifting focus from worldly metrics to spiritual reliance. Watson's manifests in and public testimony, often framing triumphs as opportunities to "show the Light" and promote ' love. In a 2014 reflection, he explained aiming to counter through personal example rather than confrontation. He has discussed parental influences, including lessons from his father, Gerry, a church-going veteran, which instilled values of perseverance and . Despite admitting past lapses—such as prioritizing career accolades over spiritual growth—Watson has articulated a post-2010s toward viewing as central to identity, influencing decisions in family, advocacy, and giving. This faith underpins Watson's philanthropy, channeled primarily through the Bubba Watson Foundation, established to "enhance the lives of people in need" with emphasis on children, young adults, and U.S. military families. The foundation supports initiatives like youth inspiration programs and military aid, reflecting Watson's stated motivation to give back as an extension of Christian stewardship. Notable donations include $1.6 million in September 2017 to The Studer Family Children's Hospital at Sacred Heart in Pensacola, Florida, for pediatric care enhancements. In June 2018, he donated $200,000 from his Travelers Championship winnings to The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, aiding children with serious illnesses through recreational programs. Further contributions demonstrate sustained commitment: $500,000 in March 2020 to the same Pensacola amid pressures; $106,000 in June 2022 for a refurbished playground at of Northwest ; and over $300,000 across 2016–2018 to beneficiaries. In December 2024, Watson partnered with for disaster relief and community aid, aligning with his foundation's child-focused mission. Additional efforts, such as the 2018 "Bubbaclaus" holiday campaign raising $50,000 for youth and military charities, underscore a pattern of leveraging earnings and visibility for targeted, verifiable impact rather than broad appeals.

Mental Health Challenges and Advocacy

Watson has publicly detailed his battles with severe anxiety and (ADHD), which escalated significantly around 2019, leading to debilitating symptoms including chronic , profound of approximately 30 to 40 pounds, and intense that made him fear for his life. These episodes, which he described as his mind causing physical distress rather than any bodily ailment, peaked during a period of professional success following his Masters victories in 2012 and 2014, yet contributed to performance dips and personal isolation. In his 2021 memoir Up & Down: Victories and Struggles in the Course of Life, Watson recounted reaching "rock bottom," including standing on a scale in despair after unexplained weight loss and surrendering to the reality of his as a prerequisite for recovery. He credited a combination of professional , candid discussions with trusted individuals, and reliance on his Christian for overcoming these challenges, emphasizing steps like acknowledging the problem and seeking external support to mitigate what he termed a "" of anxiety. Watson's advocacy for mental health awareness in sports involves openly sharing his experiences to destigmatize such issues, as evidenced by his 2021 public endorsement of tennis player Naomi Osaka's withdrawal from the amid similar pressures, where he highlighted discomfort in crowds and the value of prioritizing well-being over competition. He has promoted the message that "it's OK to not be OK sometimes," encouraging athletes to address anxiety disorders proactively rather than sidelining discussions. Through interviews and his book, he advocates for talking as a means to "shrink" anxiety, drawing from his own path to foster broader acceptance in professional golf.

Public Persona and Controversies

Outspoken Comments and Media Interactions

Bubba Watson has frequently expressed candid opinions in media interviews and on , often drawing criticism for their bluntness or alignment with conservative Christian values. In April 2013, following NBA center ' public coming out as gay, Watson tweeted support for commentator Chris Broussard's assertion that homosexual activity constitutes sinning against God, stating, "I agree 100% with what he said. Being gay is a sin just like any other ." He elaborated in a Golfweek interview that the Bible prohibits homosexuality, while emphasizing he did not view himself as superior to others. Watson reaffirmed this stance in April 2014 amid Masters coverage, noting his opposition to as rooted in scripture. On political matters, Watson voiced strong support for in July 2016, telling TMZ Sports, "I love that man," citing Trump's business acumen and personality. He praised Trump's potential role in resolving the LIV Golf-PGA Tour rift in February 2025, stating the involvement of the U.S. president could facilitate peace talks. In July 2015, amid national debate following the , Watson purchased the Dukes of Hazzard car General Lee and vowed to remove its Confederate flag emblem to promote positive change, a decision that prompted backlash on from those defending the flag as Southern heritage rather than . In golf-specific media appearances, Watson has critiqued peers and tours provocatively. During a March 2025 discussion, he claimed Scottie Scheffler's 2024 season surpassed ' dominant 2000 campaign in achievements, sparking debate over downplaying Woods' historical impact. On the Pat McAfee Show in May 2025, as captain of LIV Golf's RangeGoats GC, he described his team as "sucks" despite praising its logo, asserted the LIV schedule demands more travel than the 's, and highlighted perks like private jets, comments that elicited backlash for perceived entitlement amid LIV's Saudi funding controversies. In November 2022, he expressed puzzlement at PGA Tour players' criticism of LIV's guaranteed contracts, defending them as standard business incentives. Watson's on-course media interactions have included sharp responses to provocations. In October 2025 at the WGC-Match Play, he snapped back at a with, "Shut your mouth," highlighting ongoing debates over fan conduct and tour security. Earlier incidents, such as a 2017 post-round joke perceived as insensitive that prompted a video apology from Watson admitting he "told it badly," underscore his occasional regret over off-the-cuff remarks. He has also denied false attributions, such as a 2020 viral post criticizing , confirming it was not his.

LIV Golf Move: Supporters' and Critics' Views

Bubba Watson joined on July 30, 2022, citing multiple personal and professional benefits as key motivations. He emphasized the league's format, comparing it to successful franchises like the New York Yankees and , which allowed him to adopt a role with the RangeGoats GC and foster camaraderie among players. Watson also highlighted improved work-life balance, noting that LIV's schedule provides time off absent in the PGA Tour's year-round grind, enabling his older children to attend events and practice with him on the range. Additionally, he viewed the move as an opportunity to grow 's appeal to , aligning with his prior sponsorship of junior and tournaments, and praised LIV for introducing competition he described as "the greatest thing" for the sport. Supporters of Watson's decision, including some fellow LIV participants and fans favoring , echoed these points, arguing that the league's structure addresses player burnout and enhances fan engagement through shorter events and guaranteed earnings, which Watson defended by noting PGA Tour appearance fees he received privately. They contend that LIV's model promotes long-term sustainability by attracting investment and expanding 's global reach, with Watson asserting in 2023 that more top players would join due to its merits. This perspective frames the move as a pragmatic rather than , prioritizing player welfare and competitive variety over traditional tour loyalty. Critics, often aligned with advocates and traditionalist observers, dismissed Watson's rationales as after-the-fact justifications masking financial incentives from Saudi-backed funding. They pointed to anecdotes like his son's newfound interest in LIV broadcasts as contrived, with reactions questioning the sincerity of growth claims given the league's limited viewership and relegation risks. Watson faced backlash for recent comments on in May 2025, where he admitted his team's poor performance while praising LIV's family-friendly aspects, prompting accusations of hypocrisy and irrelevance amid RangeGoats' struggles. Detractors argued the move fragmented professional , reduced competitive merit through guaranteed contracts, and prioritized short-term gains over the 's established pathways, with Watson's initial hesitation due to feared criticism underscoring perceived reputational costs.

Other Public Disputes and Personality Traits

Watson's has often been described as eccentric and candid, blending a self-proclaimed "goofy" demeanor with outspoken confidence that peers and observers have at times perceived as abrasive or self-centered. In a 2015 anonymous survey of professionals, he ranked as the player least likely to receive assistance from fellow golfers in a hypothetical fight, a result Watson attributed to his own shortcomings and vowed to address by improving his character and interactions. This unpopularity stems in part from incidents revealing impatience under pressure, though supporters highlight his honesty and resilience amid mental health challenges like ADHD and anxiety, which he has linked to behavioral patterns. A prominent dispute arose at the 2013 , where Watson, leading by three shots entering the 16th hole, hit into water twice and openly blamed Ted Scott for erroneous club and yardage advice, sarcastically remarking on the outcome during play; this meltdown cost him the win and prompted rebukes from pros like , who publicly called Watson's conduct unprofessional on . The episode underscored tensions in their long partnership, though Scott remained with Watson until 2021, contributing to 12 victories together. At the 2016 Waste Management Phoenix Open, Watson remarked that his participation was driven by sponsor commitments rather than affinity for the event's party-like atmosphere or layout, prompting accusations of disrespect toward fans and the tournament despite his history of strong finishes there; he subsequently apologized, explaining the phrasing was imprecise while reiterating his fondness for the venue and supporters. Watson's articulation of evangelical Christian views has fueled debates, notably in when he endorsed ESPN's for labeling a akin to other extramarital acts, affirming biblical adherence while stating respect for individuals and denying superiority; critics, including some in LGBT advocacy, condemned it as promoting intolerance, though Watson positioned it as personal faith without malice. In , he painted an American flag over the Confederate emblem on a General Lee replica car he purchased, citing intent to avoid offending others amid national sensitivities post-Charleston shooting, a move praised by some for unity but critiqued by others as symbolic erasure. Confrontations with hecklers have highlighted his assertive temperament, such as in at , where he requested security remove a spectator shouting insults mid-round, and earlier instances of verbal retorts to disruptions, reflecting a focus on maintaining competitive focus amid growing fan rowdiness at events. During the 2011 Alstom Open de France, Watson's perceived rude behavior toward officials and locals earned "Ugly American" labels, leading to a tweeted apology for cultural insensitivity.

Career Achievements

PGA Tour Victories

Bubba Watson recorded 12 victories between 2010 and 2018, establishing himself as a prominent left-handed player known for his prodigious driving distance and creative shot-making. His breakthrough win came at the 2010 , where he prevailed in a playoff against and after a final-round 68. In 2011, Watson claimed two titles: the , defeating by two strokes with a tournament-record 17-under-par total, and the , edging out by three shots. Watson's 2012 Masters victory marked his first major championship, as he defeated in a sudden-death playoff following an iconic shot from the pine straw on the 10th hole during the second playoff hole. He repeated at the Masters in 2014, winning by three strokes over and with a final-round 69. That same year, Watson secured three wins, including the Northern Trust Open (now Genesis Invitational) by two strokes over and the World Golf Championships-HSBC Champions by one stroke over Tim Clark. Additional triumphs included a second in 2015, defeating by five strokes, and a second Open in 2016. Watson's most prolific year was 2018, with three victories: the Genesis Open (formerly Open) by two strokes over , the World Golf Championships-Dell Technologies by defeating 7-and-6 in the final, and a third by three strokes over and . These successes highlighted his consistency at select venues, with three wins each at Travelers and the events.
YearTournamentMargin of Victory
2010Playoff (over , )
20112 strokes
20113 strokes (over )
2012Playoff (over )
2014 Open2 strokes (over )
20143 strokes (over , )
20141 stroke (over Tim Clark)
20155 strokes (over )
2016 OpenUnspecified
2018Genesis Open2 strokes (over )
2018WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play7&6 (over )
20183 strokes (over , )

Major Championship Wins

Bubba Watson has achieved two victories in major championships, both at the Masters Tournament held at Augusta National Golf Club. These triumphs, in 2012 and 2014, represent his only major titles, with no wins in the U.S. Open, The Open Championship, or PGA Championship. Watson's first major win came at the 2012 Masters, where he defeated Louis Oosthuizen of South Africa in a sudden-death playoff on the second extra hole, the par-4 10th. Entering the final round three strokes behind the leaders, Watson posted a 3-under-par 69 to match Oosthuizen's score and force the playoff. On the playoff's second hole, facing a difficult lie in pine straw approximately 164 yards from the pin, Watson executed an improvised hook shot with a wedge that carried 134 yards to the front of the green before curving dramatically toward the flag, stopping 10 feet away; he converted the par putt after Oosthuizen bogeyed. In 2014, Watson claimed his second green jacket by three strokes over runners-up and , carding a final-round 3-under 69 to finish at 8-under par overall. Holding a two-shot lead entering the final round, Watson maintained composure amid pressure from the young challengers, making key par saves and birdies to secure the wire-to-wire victory in his sixth Masters appearance. This repeat success elevated him to a career-high world ranking of No. 2 shortly thereafter.

LIV Golf Results and Team Successes

Bubba Watson joined in June 2022, signing a reported four-year contract worth in excess of $50 million, and has since competed in 41 individual events through the 2025 season, earning $13,647,321 in . Watson has yet to claim an individual LIV Golf victory, but experienced a resurgence in form during the 2025 season, finishing second at LIV Golf UK on July 27, 2025, with a 14-under par total that featured an extraordinary 8-under par stretch over six holes in the final round, including two eagles from driver off the deck. Additional strong individual showings in 2025 included tied for fourth at (13-under par), tied for seventh at (9-under par), and tied for eighth at (16-under par). These results marked four top-10 finishes for the season, elevating Watson to 11th in the final 2025 individual standings with 78.99 points after playing all 13 events. As captain of RangeGoats GC, established for the 2023 LIV Golf season with an initial roster including Watson, , , and , the team has achieved competitive but not championship-level results. A highlight was their tied for second-place team finish at in February 2025, aggregating 39-under par across three rounds. In the 2025 LIV Golf Team Championship held August 22–24 at , RangeGoats advanced to the quarterfinals via the regular season standings but lost 2–1 to Torque GC, with Watson falling to Joaquin Niemann 2&1 while teammates Ben Campbell and secured one win. The team placed 10th overall in the 2025 Team Championship bracket with a 7-under par score. RangeGoats GC has not won a regular-season team event or the overall team title through 2025.

International and Team Representations

Watson represented the in two s, in 2011 at in and in 2015 at Golf Club Korea, with the U.S. team securing victories on both occasions by margins of 11.5–6.5 and 15.5–10.5, respectively. In the 2015 event, Watson posted a 2–1–2 record across five matches, including a halved four-ball pairing with against and . His cumulative Presidents Cup record stands at 5 wins, 3 losses, and 2 halves in 10 matches, earning 6 of 10 possible points. In contrast, Watson competed in four Ryder Cups for the U.S. team, in 2010 at in (U.S. victory, 14.5–13.5), 2012 at in (Europe victory, 14.5–13.5), 2014 at The PGA Centenary Course at Gleneagles in (Europe victory, 15–13), and 2018 at in (Europe victory, 17.5–10.5). His individual Ryder Cup record is 4 wins and 10 losses in 14 matches, with no halves, yielding 4 points and a 28.6% win rate. Notable matches include a 2018 afternoon foursomes win with over Sergio Garcia and by 3 and 2, and a singles loss to in 2014 by 4 and 2. Beyond biennial matches, Watson participated in the Wendy's 3-Tour Challenge representing the PGA Tour in 2007, 2009, and 2010, with the PGA team winning the latter two events in a team format against the LPGA Tour and Champions Tour. No records indicate participation in other major international team events such as the Olympics or World Cup of Golf during his professional career.

References

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  34. https://www.cbssports.com/golf/news/these-numbers-explain-how-bubba-watson-won-the-2018-wgc-match-play-championship/
  35. https://www.pgatour.com/article/news/daily-wrapup/2018/06/24/bubba-watson-wins-travelers-championship-tpc-river-highlands
  36. https://www.golfdigest.com/story/bubba-watson-book-up-and-down-anxiety-mental-health-struggles
  37. https://www.cbssports.com/golf/news/bubba-watson-joins-liv-golf-two-time-masters-champion-becomes-latest-star-to-defect-from-pga-tour/
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  41. https://www.foxsports.com/stories/golf/bubba-watson-masters-liv-golf
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  44. https://www.bunkered.co.uk/golf-news/bubba-watson-resigns-from-pga-tour-after-liv-golf-switch/
  45. https://www.livgolf.com/news/bubba-watson-explains-the-origins-of-his-teams-new-name-rangegoats
  46. https://golf.com/news/bubba-watson-explains-why-joining-liv-wife-loved-it/
  47. https://www.livgolf.com/rangegoats-gc/roster
  48. https://www.livgolf.com/news/rd-3-news-and-notes-best-finish-for-bubba-surratt-liv-golf-uk-by-jcb-2025
  49. https://golf.com/news/bubba-watson-two-changes-liv-golf-uk/
  50. https://www.themirror.com/sport/golf/bubba-watson-gives-brutally-honest-838752
  51. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VqPPw7inLEE
  52. https://www.spotrac.com/liv/rankings/year/2024/
  53. https://lovelivegolf.com/bubba-watson-livs-comeback-player-of-the-year/
  54. https://www.express.co.uk/sport/golf/1983870/Bubba-Watson-Greg-Norman-LIV-Golf
  55. https://www.livgolf.com/news/liv-golf-superlatives-scoring-stats-2025
  56. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aFJGZMUdkQc
  57. https://golfweek.usatoday.com/story/sports/golf/liv/2025/07/26/bubba-watson-in-second-at-liv-golf-uk-credits-new-caddie-new-putter/85388090007/
  58. https://www.golfmonthly.com/news/bubba-watson-2025-season-over-finger-surgery
  59. https://www.golfmonthly.com/tips/bubba-watson-golf-swing-analysis-154981
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  61. https://www.golfsmartacademy.com/golf-instruction/swing-analysis-bubba-watson/
  62. https://thesandtrap.com/forums/topic/21589-bubba-watsons-mystical-swing/
  63. https://www.golfmonthly.com/gear/gear-news/bubba-watson-whats-in-the-bag-2-151226
  64. https://www.pgatour.com/article/news/equipment-report/2019/02/20/golf-club-equipment-bag-driver-bubba-watson-pink-custom
  65. https://golf.com/gear/story-bubba-watson-signature-piece-equipment/
  66. https://www.golfwrx.com/674582/bubba-watson-witb-2022-april-whats-in-the-bag/
  67. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhLVxRoTstw
  68. https://www.golfwrx.com/507590/how-much-of-bubba-watsons-success-in-2018-can-be-attributed-to-his-golf-ball-change/
  69. https://theclubwasher.com/en-ca/blogs/resources/what-golf-clubs-does-bubba-watson-use
  70. https://www.golfdigest.com/story/bubbawatson
  71. https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2193599-strengths-and-weaknesses-of-top-fedex-cup-contenders
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  73. https://www.golfdigest.com/story/gwar-bubba-watson-jaime-diaz-feature
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  75. https://golf.com/news/bubba-watson-on-the-mental-and-physical-issues-that-almost-forced-him-to-retire/
  76. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NqZvcjsQobg
  77. https://golfweek.usatoday.com/story/sports/golf/2023/04/04/bubba-watson-wife-angie-kirby-smart-mary-beth-smart-georgia-football/76399284007/
  78. https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/entertainment/article/3305729/angie-watson-more-golf-star-bubba-watsons-wife-former-wnba-player-and-devout-christian-she-met
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  83. https://essential.golf/two-time-masters-winner-bubba-watson-family/
  84. https://www.baptistpress.com/resource-library/news/masters-winner-watson-not-ashamed-of-his-christian-faith/
  85. https://guideposts.org/positive-living/health-and-wellness/better-living/emotional-and-mental-health/bubba-watson-how-faith-helped-him-conquer-his-anxiety/
  86. https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/a-bubba-with-a-passion-for-the-gospel-and-golf/
  87. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sa52m7JmYo4
  88. https://baptistnews.com/article/bubba-watson-i-wanted-to-be-this-amazing-man-but-i-was-trying-to-be-an-amazing-man-because-of-numbers/
  89. https://sportsspectrum.com/podcast/2021/11/01/podcast-bubba-watson-faith-mental-health-adoption/
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  91. https://about.ascension.org/news/2017/09/bubba-watson-makes-major-donation-to-support-ascension-childrens-hospital
  92. https://sportsspectrum.com/sport/golf/2018/06/25/bubba-watson-donates-200000-of-winners-check-to-support-children-facing-serious-illnesses/
  93. https://greenbrierliving.com/member-bubba-watson-donates-half-million-childrens-hospital/
  94. https://www.pnj.com/story/news/2022/06/01/bubba-watson-and-his-family-fund-playground-ronald-mcdonald-house/9966051002/
  95. https://travelerschampionship.com/bubba-watson-commits-to-2019-travelers-championship/
  96. https://convoyofhope.org/agriculture/questions-with-bubba-watson/
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  104. https://www.forbes.com/sites/mikedojc/2021/11/05/bubba-watson-gets-candid-about-his-mental-health-struggles/
  105. https://www.buzzfeed.com/ktlincoln/golfer-bubba-watson-praises-chris-broussards-anti-gay-commen
  106. https://www.sbnation.com/golf/2013/4/30/4286364/bubba-watson-jason-collins-tweet
  107. https://www.outsports.com/2014/4/11/5606376/bubba-watson-masters-gay-sin/
  108. https://www.sbnation.com/golf/2014/4/13/5610624/bubba-watson-masters-2014-anti-gay-comments-caddie
  109. https://montrealgazette.com/life/bubba-watson-few-cheers-for-golfer-from-lgbt-community
  110. https://www.tmz.com/watch/0-6fx0rbv1/
  111. https://www.smh.com.au/sport/golf/the-trump-card-us-president-has-bubba-s-backing-to-resolve-golf-s-war-20250211-p5lb55.html
  112. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2015/jul/04/golfer-bubba-watson-criticised-for-vow-to-take-confederate-flag-off-general-lee-car
  113. https://www.bunkered.co.uk/golf-news/bubba-watson-tiger-woods-masters/
  114. https://www.bunkered.co.uk/golf-news/bubba-watson-causes-stir-with-bizarre-liv-golf-comments/
  115. https://www.express.co.uk/sport/golf/2058076/Bubba-Watson-LIV-Golf-PGA-Tour
  116. https://www.espn.com/golf/story/_/id/34934364/watson-puzzled-critics-questioning-liv-golf-guaranteed-money
  117. https://www.golfwrx.com/551838/bubba-watson-snaps-back-at-heckler-during-wgc-match-play-should-the-tour-do-more-to-stop-players-receiving-verbal-abuse/
  118. https://thesportdigest.com/2017/04/bubba-watson-and-the-bad-joke-apology/
  119. https://www.factcheck.org/2020/09/viral-post-falsely-attributed-to-golfer-bubba-watson/
  120. https://golf.com/news/bubba-watson-explains-why-joining-liv-wife-loved-it/?srsltid=AfmBOoprds9BVPKlQ2wdiAaupITvyeCXJ6oPJXjGYy4ovyC0uHLMAZgz
  121. https://nypost.com/2023/01/31/bubba-watson-brings-up-yankees-cowboys-as-reason-he-joined-liv-golf/
  122. https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10054482-bubba-watson-says-criticism-of-livs-guaranteed-contracts-makes-me-laugh
  123. https://www.espn.com/golf/story/_/id/38696384/bubba-watson-liv-deserves-major-bids-golfers-want-join
  124. https://www.balls.ie/golf/bubba-watson-explanation-for-joining-liv-golf-541301
  125. https://brobible.com/sports/article/bubba-watson-liv-golf-reaction/
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  127. https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/golf/bubba-watson-slammed-for-liv-golf-comments-after-revealing-huge-selling-point/ar-AA1FjI89
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  129. https://lifebeyondsportmedia.com/Bubba-Watson
  130. https://www.chicagotribune.com/2015/04/07/bubba-watson-reacts-to-poll-that-says-hes-unpopular-with-fellow-golfers/
  131. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/golf/article-3030026/Bubba-Watson-admits-need-improve-man-voted-unpopular-golfer.html
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  133. https://www.sbnation.com/golf/2013/6/24/4458308/bubba-watson-travelers-championship-2013
  134. https://www.golfdigest.com/story/bubba-watson-parting-ways-wtih-teddy-scott-after-winning-12-pga-tour-titles
  135. https://www.espn.com/golf/story/_/id/14722508/bubba-watson-apologizes-poor-choice-words-describing-tpc-scottsdale
  136. https://www.sbnation.com/golf/2016/2/4/10916086/bubba-watson-waste-management-phoenix-open-comments
  137. https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/golf/2013/05/01/bubba-watson-jason-collins-chris-broussard-golfweek-alex-miceli/2127727/
  138. https://www.espn.com/golf/story/_/id/13193586/bubba-watson-explains-decision-remove-confederate-flag-general-lee
  139. https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/pga/2017/06/04/watson-s-putter-silences-heckler/20725959007/
  140. https://www.internationaled.org/golf/bad-bubba-watson-turns-ugly-american-in-paris/
  141. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Bubba-Watson
  142. https://golf.com/news/2012-bubba-watson-masters-wedge/
  143. https://www.jacksonville.com/story/sports/pga/2012/04/09/bubba-watson-draws-masters-winning-shot-playoff/15870290007/
  144. https://www.golfcompendium.com/2018/11/2012-masters-tournament.html
  145. https://www.reuters.com/article/sports/golf/bubba-watson-wins-2014-masters-idUSL2N0N50LV/
  146. https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/apr/14/bubba-watson-wins-masters-green-jacket
  147. https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/tour/liv-golf/how-much-has-each-liv-golfer-earned/
  148. https://thegolfnewsnet.com/golfnewsnetteam/2025/07/27/2025-liv-golf-uk-final-results-prize-money-payout-leaderboard-and-how-much-each-golfer-won-137930/
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  150. https://www.livgolf.com/news/2025-season-in-review-rangegoats-gc
  151. https://www.rotowire.com/golf/player/bubba-watson-469
  152. https://www.livgolf.com/rangegoats-gc/results
  153. https://www.golfmagic.com/tour/liv-golf/liv-golf-team-championship-final-scores-bryson-dechambeau-leads-crushers-victory
  154. https://www.livgolf.com/standings-2024
  155. https://www.whywelovegolf.com/golf-wiki/bubba-watson-presidents-cup-record
  156. https://www.golfcompendium.com/2018/12/2015-presidents-cup.html
  157. https://www.pnj.com/story/sports/2015/10/10/bubba-watson-presidents-cup-golf/73755644/
  158. https://www.bunkered.co.uk/golf-news/bubba-watson-wants-presidents-cup-gig-but-not-as-a-player/
  159. https://datagolf.com/ryder-cup/players?dg_id=7334
  160. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zolBC9K6J_A
  161. https://adamsarson.com/match-play-records/bubba-watson-match-play-record/
  162. https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/tour/ryder-cup/ryder-cup-vs-presidents-cup-records/
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