Seve Ballesteros vs. Nick Faldo

Lore & Background

Faldo was born in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, England, in 1957, as the only child of Joyce and George Faldo. He became hooked on golf at age 14 after watching Jack Nicklaus play the 1971 Masters on television. He won the English Amateur and the British Youths Open Amateur Championship in 1975. He turned professional in 1976 and joined the European Professional Golfers Association. Faldo rebuilt his swing under David Leadbetter in the mid-1980s. He won his first major at the 1987 Open Championship at Muirfield. He won back-to-back Masters titles in 1989 and 1990, and a third Open in 1992. He also won the 1996 Masters.

Reader's Guide

Faldo is known for his dedication and meticulous approach. His swing rebuild under David Leadbetter is a key part of his story. He often displayed stoic composure but showed visible emotion after his 1992 Open win. He became a television commentator after retiring, joining CBS Sports in 2006 and BBC Sport for the Open Championship in 2012.

Did You Know?

• Faldo parred every hole in the final round to win the 1987 Open Championship.
• He became the first player since Jack Nicklaus to win back-to-back Masters titles (1989–1990).
• Faldo's 36-hole total of 130 at the 1992 Open Championship broke the tournament record.
• He won all three of his matches at the 1977 Ryder Cup as a rookie, including a win over Jack Nicklaus.