Australian golfer Jack Newton dies at the age of 72
Australia's Jack Newton, who lost in a playoff to Tom Watson at the 1975 Open Championship, has sadly passed away at the age of 72 following health complications
Australia's Jack Newton, who lost in a playoff to Tom Watson at the 1975 Open Championship, has sadly passed away at the age of 72 following health complications.
Newton won one PGA Tour event at the 1978 Buick-Goodwrench Open and three titles on the European Tour at the 1972 Dutch Open, 1972 Benson & Hedges Festival of Golf and the 1974 Benson & Hedges Match Play Championship.
His golf career ended at the age of 33, however, when he lost his right arm and eye after being hit by a spinning propeller as he prepared to board a plane.
Newton would spend the rest of his carer as a golf commentator and golf course designer.
He was then diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
The Sport Australia Hall of Fame is mourning the passing of esteemed Member, Jack Newton OAM who has passed away aged 72.
Our thoughts are with Jack’s family and friends, the golfing community and all who knew him. pic.twitter.com/JaER8wZpcb
— Sport Australia Hall of Fame (@sportaushof) April 14, 2022
"On behalf of our family, it is with great sadness I announce that our courageous and loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, and mate, Jack Newton OAM [Order of Australia] has passed away overnight due to health complications," read a statement from Newton's son, Clint.
"He fought back from tremendous adversity as only he could, and chose to selflessly invest his time, energy, and effort towards giving back to the community through his Jack Newton Junior Golf Foundation, sports commentary, golf course design, and raising significant funds for several charities, most notably, diabetes.
"His passion for sport and contributing to future generations of golfers and the Australian community demonstrates the character of our father, beloved husband, proud brother, adoring grandfather, and maverick mate."
The PGA of Australia said:"His playing career and promotion of junior golf through the Jack Newton Junior Golf Foundation will ensure his legacy forever remains embedded within Australian golf."
