Padraig Harrington player biography
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Became the first European to win back-to-back Major Championships by adding the 2008 US PGA Championship to The 2008 Open Championship crown after he successfully defended the Claret Jug at Royal Birkdale.
His victory at Oakland Hills Country Club made him the first European to win the Wanamaker Trophy since Scotland’s Tommy Armour in 1930 and ensured he had won three of the six Major Championships contested between The 2007 Open at Carnoustie and the 2008 US PGA. Also the first European since James Braid in 1906 to defend The Open. Moved to a career high of third in the World Ranking as a result of his astounding successes, which saw him collect numerous end of season awards. He was named European Tour, US PGA Tour and PGA of America Player of the Year, allied to the Golf Writers’ trophies on both sides of the Atlantic and The European Tour Shot of the Year. The statistics show he became the 16th player to defend The Open and 24th player to record multiple Open victories.
On winning The 2007 Open, he became the first player from Ireland in 60 years to capture the Claret Jug, following Fred Daly at Hoylake in 1947. Earlier in the 2007 season, he broke a 25 year barren spell for the home nation in The Irish Open, emulating the victory of John O’Leary in 1982. Secured the Harry Vardon Trophy as The European Tour’s Number One player after a thrilling end to the 2006 season where he pipped Paul Casey. A regular Ryder Cup player since 1999, he played his part in the record equalling 18 ½ – 9 ½ defeat of the USA at The Ryder Cup at The K Club in his home country.
Teamed up with Paul McGinley at Kiawah Island in 1997 to win the World Cup for Ireland for the first time in 39 years. Completed an accountancy degree before turning professional. Works closely with ‘the two Bobs’ – coach Torrance and sports psychologist, Rotella.
IN THE BAG:
DRIVER: TaylorMade Burner Superfast TP
FAIRWAY: TaylorMade R9 3-wood, Wilson Staff FWS 5-wood
HYBRID: :Wilson DXI (19 degree) and Wilson DH 6 (22 degree
IRONS: Wilson Staff FG Tour prototype
WEDGES: Wilson Staff TW9
PUTTER: Odyssey White Hot 2-ball
BALL: Titleist ProV1X