We’re remembering pro golf pioneer Charlie Sifford, the first African-American to earn what is now called a PGA Tour card.
We’re remembering pro golf pioneer Charlie Sifford, the first African-American to earn what is now called a PGA Tour card. Sifford died Feb. 3, 2015, at 92.
Sifford broke golf’s color barrier as the first black PGA Tour member in 1961. Known as the “Jackie Robinson of golf,” he was the first African-American to play in a PGA-sanctioned event after he successfully challenged the organization to end its “Caucasian-only clause.” Read more
See Charlie Sifford in photos through the years.
With golf club, cigar and cane, Charlotte’s Charlie Sifford pointed way toward progress
A lot of people remember the cigar that was a Charlie Sifford trademark. Sifford was the guest of honor at a modest golf course in Charlotte, the city where he had grown up and learned to play golf. He looked at me, raised his cane in his right hand and pointed to a creek running alongside the course. Read more
Tributes to PGA pioneer Charlie Sifford
Read condolences and tributes, and share your own memory of Sifford.
Charlie Sifford awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom
In 2014 Sifford became only the third golfer to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Tiger Woods expressed his gratitude to Charlie Sifford for paving the way: “You’re the grandpa I never had. Your past sacrifices allow me to play golf today. I’m so happy for you Charlie.” Read more
