Cary Middlecoff, American golfer and sportscaster (d. 1998)

Emmett Cary Middlecoff (January 6, 1921 – September 1, 1998) was a distinguished American professional golfer whose remarkable career on the PGA Tour spanned from 1947 to 1961. Often affectionately known as "The Dentist" due to his unique professional background, Middlecoff left an indelible mark on golf history through his exceptional skill and consistent performance.

Middlecoff's career was characterized by an extraordinary level of success, evidenced by his impressive tally of 39 PGA Tour victories. This remarkable achievement places him among the sport's elite, specifically tied for tenth on the all-time PGA Tour wins list, alongside other legendary figures, a testament to his consistent excellence and competitive drive throughout his active years.

His dominance extended to golf's most prestigious tournaments, as he captured three major championships, cementing his status as one of the game's greats. These pivotal victories include the U.S. Open twice (in 1949 and again in 1956) and the coveted Masters Tournament once (in 1955). Winning these majors against the era's top talent underscored his ability to perform under the highest pressure.

What makes Middlecoff's journey particularly fascinating is his unconventional path to professional golf. A graduate of the University of Tennessee, he initially pursued a career in dentistry, earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. For a brief period, he practiced as a dentist, a profession he ultimately abandoned at the relatively young age of 26 to dedicate himself entirely to competitive golf. This pivotal decision, transitioning from a stable professional career to the demanding world of professional sports, highlighted his immense passion and unwavering belief in his golfing prowess, a gamble that unequivocally paid off with his numerous tour victories and major titles.

During his prime, Middlecoff was known for his deliberate, methodical playing style, which contributed significantly to his remarkable consistency. He competed against and often triumphed over many of the era's greatest players, solidifying his reputation as a formidable competitor. His legacy endures as one of the most successful golfers of his generation and a unique, inspiring figure in sports history due to his unlikely career transition.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cary Middlecoff

When did Cary Middlecoff play professional golf?
Cary Middlecoff's primary professional golf career on the PGA Tour spanned from 1947 to 1961, during which he achieved the vast majority of his significant victories.
How many PGA Tour wins did Cary Middlecoff have?
He accumulated 39 PGA Tour wins, placing him among the top all-time winners in the history of the tour, often listed as tied for tenth on the all-time list.
Which major championships did Cary Middlecoff win?
Cary Middlecoff won three major championships: the U.S. Open in both 1949 and 1956, and the Masters Tournament in 1955.
Was Cary Middlecoff a dentist before becoming a golfer?
Yes, he graduated as a dentist from the University of Tennessee and practiced briefly before giving up his dental career at age 26 to become a full-time professional golfer, a rare and remarkable career change.