Jay Sigel, a revered figure in American amateur golf history, has passed away at the age of 81 due to pancreatic cancer, as announced by the U.S. Golf Association. Sigel’s remarkable career began with his domination in amateur golf, earning two U.S. Amateur titles and three U.S. Mid-Amateur victories. His participation in nine Walker Cup matches, with two of those as a playing captain, further solidified his status as a legend in the sport.
Sigel distinguished himself as a low amateur at the Masters on three occasions, and he replicated this feat at the U.S. Open and the British Open. His journey in golf started with a scholarship at Wake Forest, supported by the legendary Arnold Palmer. However, his aspiration to turn professional was curtailed by a significant injury when his left hand was severely cut by a pane window on a swinging door, necessitating 70 stitches. This incident shifted his focus away from professional play, leading him to a thriving insurance career.
Sigel once reflected on this pivotal moment, saying, “I always thought things happen for a reason. The hand injury was the best thing to happen to me.” Embracing his amateur status, he achieved his first U.S. Amateur win in 1982 and made history by following it up with a U.S. Mid-Amateur win the next year, becoming the first to secure both titles in the same year. Among his other amateur accolades, he claimed victories in esteemed competitions such as the Sunnehanna Amateur, the Northeast Amateur, and the Porter Cup.
When he turned 50, Sigel joined the PGA Tour Champions, where he recorded eight victories, yet his impact and true legacy remain in amateur golf. His presence in the Walker Cup was monumental, participating in eight victorious campaigns and serving as captain in both 1983 and 1985. Sigel’s legacy is etched into the history of golf, celebrated for his unparalleled achievements and dedication to the sport.