How Old Is Ben Crenshaw? Age and Career Facts

By Sarah Miller · April 5, 2036

Ben Crenshaw, the renowned American professional golfer, was born on January 11, 1952. As of 2025, he is 73 years old.

Who Is Ben Crenshaw?

Ben Crenshaw is a legendary figure in the world of professional golf, celebrated for his exceptional putting skills, deep knowledge of golf course architecture, and long-standing career on the PGA Tour. Known affectionately as “The Putting Genius,” Crenshaw turned professional in 1973 after a stellar amateur career and went on to win 19 PGA Tour events, including two major championships.

Early Life and Amateur Success

Born in Austin, Texas, Crenshaw showed golfing talent at an early age.
He won three consecutive Texas State Junior titles from 1964 to 1966.
Crenshaw claimed two NCAA Individual Championships while attending the University of Texas.
He was runner-up in the 1971 U.S. Amateur and won the 1973 U.S. Amateur title.

Professional Career Highlights

Crenshaw's transition to professional golf was seamless, marked by immediate success and consistent performance over decades.

PGA Tour Victories

Total PGA Tour wins: 19
Major Championships: 2 (Masters Tournament – 1984, 1995)
Notable near-miss: Finished second at the 1999 Masters, just one shot behind champion Jose Maria Olazabal.
Known for his loyalty to traditional equipment and classic swing mechanics.

Ryder Cup Involvement

Played on six Ryder Cup teams (1979, 1981, 1983, 1985, 1987, 1995).
Served as non-playing captain for the victorious 1999 U.S. Ryder Cup team.
His leadership during the “Comeback at Brookline” is widely praised.

Golf Course Design and Legacy

Beyond playing, Crenshaw has made a significant impact as a golf course architect, often partnering with Bill Coore.

Notable Course Designs

Fancourt – South Africa
Streamsong Red Course – Florida
Pinehurst No. 10 (planned)
Revived classic designs at Sand Hills and Friar’s Head in collaboration with Coore.

Their design philosophy emphasizes minimalism, natural terrain use, and strategic play, earning acclaim from critics and players alike.

Ben Crenshaw Career Statistics Overview

Category	Statistic
Full Name	Ben Charles Crenshaw
Date of Birth	January 11, 1952
Age (as of 2025)	73
Birthplace	Austin, Texas, USA
Turned Professional	1973
PGA Tour Wins	19
Major Championships	2 (Masters – 1984, 1995)
Senior PGA Tour Wins	13
Ryder Cup Appearances (Player)	6
Ryder Cup Captaincy	1 (1999)
Golf Hall of Fame Inducted	1998
World Golf Hall of Fame Class	1998

Table data source:1, 2, 3

The data highlights Crenshaw’s longevity and excellence across multiple facets of golf. His 19 PGA Tour wins and two Masters victories solidify his status among the game’s elite. Induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1998 underscores his lasting legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ben Crenshaw

How old is Ben Crenshaw as of 2025?

As of 2025, Ben Crenshaw is 73 years old, having been born on January 11, 1952.

What are Ben Crenshaw’s most famous achievements in golf?

Ben Crenshaw is best known for winning the Masters Tournament twice (1984, 1995), his exceptional putting ability, and captaining the 1999 U.S. Ryder Cup team to a dramatic comeback victory.

Did Ben Crenshaw design golf courses?

Yes, Ben Crenshaw is a prominent golf course architect, frequently collaborating with Bill Coore. Their firm, Coore & Crenshaw, has designed acclaimed courses worldwide, emphasizing natural design and playability.

Is Ben Crenshaw in the World Golf Hall of Fame?

Yes, Ben Crenshaw was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1998 in recognition of his outstanding playing career and contributions to the sport.

Why is Ben Crenshaw called “The Putting Genius”?

He earned the nickname “The Putting Genius” due to his remarkable skill on the greens, smooth stroke, and ability to make crucial putts under pressure, particularly during his Masters victories.