Joe McConnell
Legendary golfer Juan “Chi Chi” Rodriguez — famous for the way he mesmerized fans with his iconic sword dance around the green — has sadly passed away.
The PGA Tour confirmed his passing Thursday… with the commissioner Jay Monahan writing in a statement that Chi Chi was “a lively and colorful personality both on and off the golf course” who “will be greatly missed by the PGA Tour and by those whose lives he touched in his mission of giving back.”
“The PGA Tour extends its deepest condolences to the entire Rodriguez family at this difficult time,” Monahan added.
Rodriguez was 88. The cause of death was not immediately known.
A one-of-a-kind celebration.
Chi Chi Rodriguez explains her signature “sword dance”.
We will miss him. photo.twitter.com/XTsN9tzjCe
— PGA TOUR Champions (@ChampionsTour) August 9, 2024
@CampioniTour
Chi Chi began his professional career in 1960, and continued to play on the PGA Tour for over two decades. He had eight victories on the circuit, and finished in the top 10 at the Masters twice in the 1970s.
He later starred on the Champions Tour, accumulating 22 victories.
Happy Birthday, Chi Chi Rodriguez!
His dance steps, his game 💯 photo.twitter.com/CB219Tddrk
— PGA TOUR Champions (@ChampionsTour) October 23, 2019
@CampioniTour
Chi Chi, however, was best known for his antics after making big putts. Initially, he would place his cap on the holes to celebrate the ball falling. But after complaints from fellow pros, he changed the celly to imitate a bullfight, which fans around the world loved.
In 1992, Rodriguez was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame.
RIP.
