Golfing icon and philanthropist, Juan Antonio “Chi Chi” Rodriguez, died at the age of 88 on August 8, 2024. Rodriguez, a native of Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, was known for his vibrant style on the green and his dedicated efforts to assist at-risk youth.
Rodriguez, born on October 23, 1936, was the second eldest of six children in a family that had financial challenges. He spent his childhood in the sugar cane fields of Puerto Rico, where he learned to play golf using a branch from a guava tree as a club and a tin can as a ball. By age 12, he boasted of being able to shoot a 67, showing his inherent skill in the game.
Following his service in the U.S. Army from 1955 to 1957, Rodriguez turned to professional golf and joined the PGA Tour in 1960. During his 21-year-long career, he achieved eight PGA Tour wins, starting with the 1963 Denver Open. His lively personality and trademark “matador routine” of twirling his club like a sword made him popular among fans. “Chi Chi’s passion for charity and outreach was surpassed only by his incredible talent with a golf club in his hand,” said PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan.
Rodriguez’s success was not limited to the PGA Tour. He also triumphed in the Senior PGA Tour (now known as the PGA Tour Champions), winning 22 tournaments between 1985 and 2002. The total earnings of his career exceeded $7.6 million, reflecting his expertise on the golf course.
Beyond his achievements in golf, Rodriguez was deeply dedicated to philanthropy. He co-founded the Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation in Clearwater, Florida in 1979. In collaboration with Pinellas County Schools and the First Tee program, the foundation uses golf as a medium to teach life skills to at-risk youth.
In 1998, Rodriguez survived a severe heart attack, described by doctors as a “widow-maker.” Despite this health crisis, he returned to golf for a few more years before concentrating on his philanthropic endeavors. In Puerto Rico, he was involved in a golf community project and hosted a local radio talk show.
In 1992, Rodriguez was honored by being inducted into the PGA World Golf Hall of Fame, a high point in his illustrious career. He is survived by his wife, Iwalani, of almost 60 years, and his stepdaughter, Donnette.
The legacy of Juan “Chi Chi” Rodriguez will be remembered not only for his significant contributions to the world of golf but also for his steadfast commitment to community service. His life serves as an inspiring example of the impact that determination, generosity, and a passion for the game can have.