Johnny Miller at a Glance
Johnny Miller: A Deep Dive into the Life and Net Worth of a Golfing Legend
Johnny Miller, a name synonymous with golfing excellence, carved a significant legacy in the world of professional golf. Beyond his remarkable achievements on the course, Miller transitioned into a successful broadcasting career, solidifying his place as a prominent figure in sports commentary. This article delves into the life, career, and net worth of Johnny Miller, exploring his early life, his dominance on the PGA Tour, his major championship victories, his post-playing endeavors, and his lasting impact on the sport.
Early Life and Amateur Career
Born John Laurence Miller on April 29, 1947, in San Francisco, California, Johnny Miller’s journey to golfing stardom began in his youth. He attended Abraham Lincoln High School before pursuing higher education at Brigham Young University (BYU). Miller’s passion for golf ignited early, leading him to join the prestigious Olympic Club in 1963 at the tender age of 16. He quickly rose through the ranks of the junior golf circuit, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication. His achievements in his amateur career set the stage for his professional success.
- 1963: Joined Olympic Club.
- 1964: Won the US Junior Amateur Championship.
- 1966: Qualified for the U.S. Open, finishing tied for 8th place.
- 1968: Won the California Amateur Championship.
PGA Tour Dominance: The Rise of Johnny Miller
Johnny Miller’s professional golf career commenced in 1969, marking the beginning of an era of remarkable achievements and dominance on the PGA Tour. His exceptional skills, strategic gameplay, and unwavering determination propelled him to the forefront of the golfing world. Miller’s impact on the sport went beyond individual victories; he helped redefine the standards of excellence, inspiring a generation of golfers and captivating audiences worldwide. His early wins foreshadowed a career filled with major triumphs and lasting influence.
Miller’s professional career boasts impressive statistics, including:
- 25 PGA Tour victories
- 1 European Tour victory
- 1 Japan Golf Tour victory
Major Championships and Career Highlights
Johnny Miller’s career is punctuated by iconic moments and significant victories, solidifying his status as one of golf’s greats. Among his most notable achievements are his victories at major championships, including the 1973 U.S. Open, where he shot a remarkable final round of 63, and the 1976 Open Championship. These victories, along with numerous other high finishes, showcase Miller’s consistency and ability to perform under pressure. His induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1996 is a testament to his enduring impact on the sport.
- 1971: Tied for 2nd Place at the Masters Tournament
- 1973: Won the U.S. Open (shot a 63 in the final round)
- 1974: PGA Player of the Year
- 1975: Tied for 2nd Place at the Masters Tournament
- 1976: Won The Open Championship
- 1981: Tied for 2nd Place at the Masters Tournament
- 1996: Inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame
His performance at the 1973 U.S. Open stands as a defining moment in his career. Starting the final round in 12th place, Miller’s record-breaking score of 63 propelled him to victory, highlighting his ability to perform under pressure and showcasing his exceptional talent. This score remains the lowest final-round score to win a major championship.

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Post-Playing Career: Broadcasting and Business Ventures
After retiring from professional golf, Johnny Miller seamlessly transitioned into a highly successful career in broadcasting, becoming a leading golf analyst. His insightful commentary, often delivered with a candid style, earned him both praise and criticism. Miller’s voice became a staple for golf fans, providing unique perspectives on the sport’s intricacies. Beyond broadcasting, Miller also ventured into various business opportunities, including golf course design and ownership, further solidifying his lasting impact on the golfing world. He has designed over 30 courses, including the redesign of Silverado Country Club.
- Lead golf analyst on NBC Sports (1990-2019)
- Columnist for Golf Digest magazine
- Author of “I Call the Shots”
- Partner in Silverado Country Club
- Owner of a golf design company and golf academy
His work as a golf analyst for NBC Sports from 1990 to 2019 made him a household name among golf enthusiasts. Miller’s commentary was known for its directness and occasionally controversial opinions, which added to his popularity. His analysis helped shape the way audiences understood the game. Miller has also been involved in several business ventures, including golf course design and ownership. He is a partner in the Silverado Country Club in Napa, California, a venue that has hosted multiple PGA tournaments. Additionally, Miller owns a golf design company and a golf academy, further contributing to the sport he loves.
Personal Life
Johnny Miller’s personal life is centered around his family and faith. He and his wife, Linda, have six children and reside on the Monterey Peninsula in California. Miller is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His family life and faith have played an integral role in shaping his values and guiding his life both on and off the golf course. Miller’s commitment to his family and his faith reflects a well-rounded life beyond the spotlight of his professional career.
Legacy and Net Worth
Johnny Miller’s legacy extends beyond his on-course accomplishments. He is remembered for his exceptional talent, his competitive spirit, and his influential role in golf broadcasting. Miller’s net worth is estimated at $20 million, reflecting his successful career as a professional golfer, his broadcasting ventures, and his business investments. His contributions to the sport, both as a player and a commentator, have left an enduring mark on the game of golf, and his impact continues to be felt by fans and professionals alike.