Where did Collin Morikawa grow up playing golf?
Where did Collin Morikawa grow up playing golf?
By Indra Gunawan April 15, 2024 13:49
Collin Morikawa, the accomplished American professional golfer, has made a name for himself in the golfing world at a remarkably young age.
His journey from a budding talent to a two-time major champion is an inspiring story that traces back to his early days and the places where he honed his golfing skills.
Early Life and Education
Collin Morikawa was born on February 6, 1997, in Los Angeles, California. His passion for golf started early, and he attended La Canada High School in Los Angeles County.
It was during his time in high school that his potential as a golfer began to emerge, laying the foundation for his future success in the sport.
College Years at the University of California, Berkeley
Morikawa's golfing journey continued to flourish when he attended the University of California, Berkeley, from 2015 to 2019, where he played collegiate golf.
His time at Berkeley was marked by numerous victories, including winning the 2019 Pac-12 Conference Championship and other prestigious amateur tournaments such as the Western Junior, Trans-Mississippi Amateur, Sunnehanna Amateur, and the Northeast Amateur.
During his collegiate career, Morikawa showcased exceptional talent, securing five wins, 22 top-5 finishes, and 35 top-10 finishes.
His outstanding performance led to him being named the 2017-18 Golfweek Men's Golf National Player of the Year and earning the Pac-12 Men's Golfer of the Year honors for the 2018-19 season.
These accolades underscore the remarkable impact Morikawa had during his time at the University of California, Berkeley, solidifying his status as a promising golfing talent.
Impact of His Upbringing
Morikawa's upbringing in Los Angeles played a pivotal role in shaping his golfing journey. His early exposure to the sport and the support of his family laid the groundwork for his success.
Also, his high school experience and collegiate career at Berkeley were instrumental in nurturing his talent and passion for golf.
Professional Career and Achievements
Following his collegiate career, Morikawa turned professional in 2019 and quickly made his mark on the PGA Tour.
His professional debut was marked by an impressive streak of 22 consecutive made cuts, a testament to his skill and consistency.
Since then, he has gone on to secure six PGA Tour wins, including two major championships – the 2020 PGA Championship and the 2021 Open Championship.
His victory in the 2021 Open Championship at Royal St George's Golf Club in Kent, England, was particularly historic, as Morikawa became the first player since Bobby Jones in 1926 to win two majors in eight or fewer starts.
He also achieved the distinction of being the first player to win two different majors in his debut appearance.
Where He Calls Home
After completing his education, Morikawa settled in Las Vegas, Nevada, where he currently resides with his spouse, Katherine Zhu, whom he married in 2022.
Their home club in Las Vegas is The Summit Club, which hosted the 2021 CJ Cup.
This transition to Las Vegas marked a new chapter in Morikawa's life and career, providing him with a supportive environment as he continued to make strides in professional golf.
Influence of His Coach and Personal Interests
Throughout his golfing journey, Morikawa has been guided by his coach, Rick Sessinghaus, who has been instrumental in nurturing his talent since Morikawa was eight years old.
This enduring mentorship has been a crucial factor in Morikawa's development as a golfer.
Beyond golf, Morikawa's personal interests include his love for sports teams like the Lakers and Dodgers, both based in Los Angeles, reflecting his strong connection to his hometown.
His passion for basketball and baseball during his younger years showcases a well-rounded athletic background that has likely contributed to his success in golf.
His upbringing, education, and transition to professional golf have all played pivotal roles in shaping him into the accomplished golfer he is today.
Collin Morikawa's roots in Los Angeles, his formative years at the University of California, Berkeley, and his subsequent professional journey have all contributed to shaping him into the exceptional golfer he is today.
His achievements and impact exemplify the significance of early experiences and the supportive environment in fostering talent and passion for the sport of golf.