Gary Player mourns death of PGA Tour icon and ‘finest gentleman I’ve ever met’

After the passing of a PGA Tour icon and legendary trailblazer, fellow sporting hero Gary Player led the tributes to the late star with a heartfelt message to his family

Golfing legend Gary Player led the tributes as he expressed his heartache after learning of the death of PGA Tour icon Jim Dent – calling his peer the “finest gentleman I’ve ever met”.

The popular ex-professional enjoyed 40 years on the PGA Tour and PGA Tour Champions circuits altogether, becoming a trailblazer in the process. A pioneering Black golfer, his achievements saw him inducted into the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame, and the National Black Golf Hall of Fame.

Having grown up a stone’s throw from Augusta National Golf Club, he caddied at the world-famous home of the Masters for figures including President Dwight Eisenhower as a youngster. This early exposure to the sport saw him launch his own career too and he turned professional in 1966.

Across an impressive career, he tallied up 450 starts, with 25 of these appearances ending in top-10s finishes. Although he did not win a PGA Tour event, the Georgia-born star did eventually win 12 tournaments on the PGA Champions Tour, earning him winnings of some $9 million.

Grandson Andre Lacey confirmed that his legendary family member had passed away on May 2 following a stroke at the age of 85. Taking to social media, he expressed his sorrow alongside lauding his grandfather for his achievements, saying: “I’m grateful I was able to have you as my grandfather… until the next time Chinababy.”

Likewise, Miller Brady, the president of the PGA Tour Champions, issued a tribute to man who was known to fans as Big Boy on account of his long drives. They wrote: “A lot of people will remember Jim Dent for how far he hit the ball, and he really did.

“Yet his long-term success, especially on our tour, proved Jim was more than just long off the tee.

“Jim was as easy going as he was competitive, and he added so much during his time as a PGA Tour Champions player. We offer our sincere condolences to his entire family.”

Don Rea Jr., the President of PGA America, also hailed the popular late star for his achievements both on and off the golf course. He wrote in a statement: “Jim Dent was a trailblazer in our game, and he embodied the spirit of perseverance, determination and excellence that inspires us all.

“I had the privilege of being with Jim recently, and he was proud to show me his PGA of America Membership card. His contributions to the game transcend his victories, as he opened doors for countless others to follow.