Paul Azinger, a distinguished figure in professional golf, is set to receive the Payne Stewart Award, an accolade that recognizes extraordinary character and sportsmanship. Azinger, for his part, has already established himself on the PGA Tour with a lifetime of impressive accomplishments. He has an incredible professional 12-time winner’s resume, capped off with his memorable 1993 PGA Championship win in a playoff.
The Payne Stewart Award, established in 2000 following the tragic death of Stewart in a plane crash, honors those who embody the qualities of its namesake. Azinger, who counted Stewart as one of his best friends on tour, was extremely humbled by the honor.
“To be named the recipient of this award, representing my dearest friend, is one of the proudest moments in my life.” – Paul Azinger
Azinger’s contributions to golf extend well beyond his playing career. He was hugely influential in changing the Ryder Cup qualification process. He was the American captain in 2008, when he led his American squad to a commanding victory over Europe. This success was perhaps the beginning of a new era for U.S. golf in the biennial competition.
Aside from his sporting achievements, Azinger and his wife Toni have thrown themselves into charity work since Azinger’s competitive career ended. In 2021, they opened the Azinger Family Compassion Center for Manatee County in Florida. The mission of this center is to help our most vulnerable and needy families, so we can offer hope, help and healing to those most in need.
Azinger is now a television analyst for the PGA Tour Champions. He is a passionate speaker and trainer who enjoys sharing his knowledge and experience with audiences.
The Payne Stewart Award ceremony will take place during the Tour Championship in Atlanta this August. So don’t miss the exciting action, we’ll see you at home on your screens! Earning this award adds another exciting chapter to Azinger’s illustrious career. Second, it speaks to his intrepid pursuit of excellence, as much off the golf course as on it.
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