What Happened to Robert Lee Elder?
Lee Elder was a pioneering American professional golfer who broke racial barriers by becoming the first Black golfer to play in the Masters Tournament in 1975. He achieved four PGA Tour victories and eight PGA Tour Champions wins, leaving a lasting legacy of courage and advocacy for inclusion in golf before his passing in November 2021. His impact continues to be celebrated through scholarships and initiatives promoting diversity in the sport.
Quick Answer
Lee Elder, a trailblazing American professional golfer, passed away on November 28, 2021, at the age of 87. He is best remembered for making history in 1975 as the first Black golfer to compete in the Masters Tournament, an achievement that opened doors for future generations like Tiger Woods. His legacy continues through scholarships and programs aimed at promoting diversity in golf, reflecting his lifelong commitment to breaking down barriers and fostering inclusion in the sport.
📊Key Facts
📅Complete Timeline13 events
Born in Dallas, Texas
Robert Lee Elder was born, the youngest of 10 children. He was orphaned at a young age, losing both parents by age nine.
Turned Professional
After a stint in the U.S. Army, Elder turned professional, initially playing on the United Golf Association (UGA) Tour.
Dominates UGA Tour
Elder achieved significant success on the UGA Tour, winning an impressive 18 out of 22 tournaments he entered in one period.
Earns PGA Tour Card
Elder successfully qualified for and earned his PGA Tour card, allowing him to compete on the mainstream professional circuit.
Wins Monsanto Open
Elder secured his first PGA Tour victory at the Monsanto Open, which earned him the coveted invitation to the Masters Tournament.
First Black Golfer at The Masters
Lee Elder made history by becoming the first African American to compete in the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club.
First Black Ryder Cup Player
Elder broke another barrier by becoming the first Black player to represent the United States in the Ryder Cup.
Joins Senior PGA Tour
At age 50, Elder transitioned to the Senior PGA Tour (now PGA Tour Champions), where he would go on to win eight tournaments.
Receives Bob Jones Award
The USGA honored Elder with the prestigious Bob Jones Award, its highest honor, recognizing his distinguished sportsmanship in golf.
Augusta National Honors Elder
Augusta National announced it would endow two scholarships in Elder's name at Paine College and invite him as an honorary starter for the 2021 Masters.
Honorary Starter at The Masters
Elder participated in the ceremonial first tee shot at the Masters alongside Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player, receiving a standing ovation.
Passes Away at 87
Lee Elder died in Escondido, California, at the age of 87, leaving behind a profound legacy in golf and civil rights.
50th Anniversary of Masters Debut Celebrated
The golf world widely commemorated the 50th anniversary of Lee Elder's historic debut at the Masters, reflecting on his enduring impact and courage.
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🔍Deep Dive Analysis
Robert Lee Elder, born on July 14, 1934, in Dallas, Texas, overcame immense personal tragedy and racial discrimination to become a golf legend. Orphaned at a young age, Elder began caddying, which ignited his passion for golf. He honed his skills on the United Golf Association (UGA) Tour, a circuit for Black golfers, where he dominated, winning 18 of 22 events in 1966.
Elder's breakthrough came in 1967 when he earned his PGA Tour card, six years after the tour lifted its color barrier. His career was marked by significant achievements, including four PGA Tour victories, with his win at the 1974 Monsanto Open earning him a historic invitation to the 1975 Masters Tournament. This made him the first Black golfer to compete in the prestigious event, a moment that transcended sports and challenged racial segregation in golf. Despite facing death threats and immense pressure, Elder played with dignity, though he missed the cut.
His pioneering spirit continued as he became the first Black player to compete for the U.S. in the Ryder Cup in 1979. After turning 50, Elder joined the Senior PGA Tour (now PGA Tour Champions), where he secured eight victories. Beyond his playing career, Elder was a dedicated advocate for inclusion, establishing the Lee Elder Scholarship Fund in 1974 to support low-income students. He also served on the board for Goodwill Industries and was a fundraiser for the United Negro College Fund.
In his later years, Elder received well-deserved recognition for his contributions. In 2019, he was awarded the USGA's Bob Jones Award, the organization's highest honor. In a poignant moment in April 2021, he returned to Augusta National as an honorary starter for the Masters, joining Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player. Although his health prevented him from hitting a ceremonial tee shot, his presence was met with a thunderous ovation, symbolizing the progress he had inspired.
Lee Elder passed away on November 28, 2021, at the age of 87 in Escondido, California. His death prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the golf world, acknowledging his profound impact. As of 2026, Elder's legacy remains vibrant and continues to inspire. Augusta National established two scholarships in his name at Paine College, a historically Black college, and funded its men's and women's golf programs, ensuring his commitment to education and diversity lives on. The 50th anniversary of his groundbreaking Masters debut in April 2025 was widely celebrated, reinforcing his enduring status as a civil rights icon and a true pioneer in golf.
What If...?
Explore alternate histories. What if Robert Lee Elder made different choices?