Professional Career
Venturi was a regular winner during his early years on the PGA Tour after turning pro at the end of 1956. He again come close to winning the Masters in 1958 and 1960, both times being edged out by Arnold Palmer.
After suffering minor injuries in an automobile accident in 1961, Venturi's swing, and thus his career, began to slide. This slump lasted until 1964 when, for no reason even Venturi could fathom, he began playing well again. After a couple of high finishes, Venturi reached the pinnacle of his comeback by winning the 1964 U.S. Open at Congressional Country Club, after nearly collapsing in the 100-degree heat during the then 36-hole final day. He received that year's Sports Illustrated magazine's "Sportsman of the Year" award and PGA Player of the Year award. He played on the 1965 Ryder Cup team. Venturi received the 1998 Old Tom Morris Award from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, GCSAA's highest honor.
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