Lee Trevino at a Glance
Lee Trevino’s Net Worth: A Look at the Life and Career of a Golfing Legend
Introduction: The Merry Mex
Lee Trevino, the charismatic Mexican-American golfer, has captivated fans with his exceptional talent, infectious humor, and unwavering spirit. But what is the net worth of this golfing legend? Lee Trevino boasts an impressive net worth of $50 million. This article dives deep into the life and career of Lee Trevino, exploring his financial success, his remarkable achievements on the course, and his enduring legacy as one of golf’s most beloved figures.
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Born in Garland, Texas, in 1939, Trevino’s early life was marked by hardship and resilience. His father left the family when he was young, leaving Trevino to be raised by his mother, Juanita, and grandfather, Joe. At the tender age of five, he began working in the cotton fields to help support his family. This experience instilled in him a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for the value of hard work. Trevino’s introduction to golf came through an old club and a few balls given by his uncle. He honed his skills by sneaking onto local country clubs to practice. His dedication soon led to a job as a caddie at the Dallas Athletic Club, which allowed him to further immerse himself in the game. Trevino dropped out of school at 14 to work full-time, dedicating himself to golf.
Military Service and the Path to Professional Golf
In 1956, at the age of 17, Trevino enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving for four years as a machine gunner. During his military service, he found opportunities to play golf in Armed Forces events throughout Asia. This experience further refined his skills and solidified his passion for the sport. After his discharge from the Marines in 1960, Trevino returned to civilian life, embarking on his journey to become a professional golfer.
A Storied Professional Career: Victories and Championships
Following his military service, Trevino worked as a club professional in El Paso, Texas. In 1966, he qualified for the US Open for the first time, finishing tied for 54th, a sign of his growing talent. The following year, he improved significantly, finishing fifth and earning the Golf Digest Rookie of the Year award. His breakthrough came in 1968 when he won the US Open at Oak Hill Country Club in Rochester, New York. This victory catapulted him to the forefront of the golfing world. The early 1970s marked a period of dominance for Trevino. His main rival was Jack Nicklaus. He won the US Open again in 1971, defeating Nicklaus in a playoff. That same year, he achieved a historic feat by winning the US Open, the Open Championship, and the Canadian Open, becoming the first player to accomplish this triple crown in a single year. This incredible achievement earned him the Hickok Belt as the top professional athlete of 1971. Trevino continued to amass victories throughout the 1970s and 1980s. He defended his Open Championship title in 1972 and won the PGA Championship in 1974, adding to his major championship collection. In 1975, he was struck by lightning at the Western Open, suffering spinal injuries. Despite this setback, he continued to compete at a high level, securing three PGA Tour wins in 1980 and winning his sixth and final major championship at the 1984 PGA Championship. His career earnings totaled $9.9 million, placing him among the top 30 all-time earners, with tens of millions more earned through endorsements.
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International Acclaim: Trevino’s Global Impact
Trevino’s golfing prowess extended far beyond the United States. Throughout his career, he participated in numerous international events, showcasing his talent on a global stage. He played on the Australasian Tour early in his career, achieving runner-up finishes in the Dunlop International. On the European Tour, he won the 1978 Benson & Hedges International Open and the 1985 Dunhill British Masters. He also achieved a runner-up position at the Bob Hope British Classic in 1980. These international victories and consistent performances solidified his status as a world-class golfer.
The Masters Tournament: A Notable Performance
Trevino’s participation in the Masters Tournament was also noteworthy. At the age of 49, in 1989, he opened his Masters campaign with a bogey-free round of 67, becoming the oldest player to lead after a round. He ultimately tied for 18th. Although he did not win the Masters, his performance at that age demonstrates his enduring skill and competitive spirit. He previously had career-best results at the Masters in 1975 and 1985.
The Merry Mex: Trevino’s Humor and Personality
Beyond his golfing achievements, Trevino was renowned for his sense of humor and witty remarks. He brought a lightheartedness to the sport, often joking with spectators and fellow players. His playful demeanor earned him the nickname “The Merry Mex.” One memorable example of his humor came during the 1971 US Open playoff against Jack Nicklaus, where he tossed a rubber snake at his rival. His sense of humor even landed him a cameo appearance as himself in the 1996 Adam Sandler comedy film “Happy Gilmore,” further cementing his popularity.
Honors and Awards: Recognizing a Champion
Trevino’s remarkable achievements have earned him numerous honors and awards. Along with Tiger Woods, he is the only golfer to win the PGA Tour’s Open Championship, US Open, and Canadian Open in the same year. He accomplished this feat in 1971, a testament to his exceptional talent and consistency. He won the Vardon Trophy for the lowest scoring average five times, in 1970, 1971, 1972, 1974, and 1980. In 1981, he was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame, solidifying his place among golf’s greatest. In 2000, Golf Digest magazine ranked him as the 14th greatest golfer in history, a fitting recognition of his outstanding career.
Personal Life: Family and Relationships
Trevino’s personal life includes two marriages. His first marriage was to Claudia Fenley, and they were later divorced. In 1983, he married Claudia Bove. He has six children, and his family life has been a significant part of his overall story.
Real Estate Ventures: The Dallas Mansion
In 1996, Trevino and Bove purchased a luxurious mansion in the prestigious Preston Hollow neighborhood of Dallas. The estate, spanning five acres, featured a four-bedroom, seven-bathroom main house, along with amenities such as a game room, music room, and a guest suite. The property included a private creek, a stone bridge, a pool, a tennis court, and putting greens. After extensive remodeling, the couple moved into the residence in 1999. In 2014, they listed the property for $13 million, later reducing the price to $7.5 million. The property was eventually sold in 2019. The following is a video showing what the mansion looked like when Trevino was the owner:
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Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Lee Trevino
Lee Trevino’s net worth of $50 million is a testament to his talent, hard work, and enduring appeal. From his humble beginnings to his status as one of golf’s all-time greats, Trevino’s career has been marked by exceptional skill, numerous victories, and a charismatic personality. His impact on the sport extends beyond the course, with his humor and relatability endearing him to fans around the world. Lee Trevino’s legacy continues to inspire golfers and admirers alike, solidifying his place as a true icon in the history of the game.