SYDNEY — American golf legend John Daly, known as much for his fiery temperament as his prodigious talent, was handed a lifetime ban from the Australian Open after an extraordinary meltdown during the 2011 tournament at The Lakes in Sydney.
The two-time major winner, famous for his 1991 PGA Championship and 1995 Open Championship victories, was playing his opening round when frustration got the better of him. According to reports, Daly hit seven consecutive balls into the water on the 10th hole before announcing to his playing partners that he was done — and then walked off the course without officially notifying tournament officials.
Tournament director Trevor Herden later confirmed that Daly’s abrupt exit was the final straw. “I would say this is the last time we see John Daly at this tournament,” Herden said. “I’m extremely bitter and disappointed. It’s becoming a bit of a habit.”
Herden explained that Daly could have easily requested replacement golf balls from officials under the rules. “If you run out of golf balls and are acting professionally, we can get the type of ball you’re playing with and replenish your stock,” he said. “For him to treat it as ‘that’s it’ and walk away — that’s not good enough.”
Daly’s playing partner Hunter Mahan described the incident as disrespectful to the sport and its competitors. “Once I saw two go in, I think the effort went down pretty fast,” Mahan said. “It’s not the most respectful thing for a guy who would die to play in this.”
Following the outburst, Brian Thorburn, CEO of the PGA of Australia, confirmed that Daly was no longer welcome at the event or at the Coolum venue.
Now 59 years old, Daly continues to compete occasionally on the senior circuit but remains infamous for his unpredictable behavior throughout a career defined by both brilliance and controversy. Most recently, he withdrew from the Sanford International in South Dakota after the opening round, adding yet another chapter to the colorful — and often turbulent — story of one of golf’s most mercurial figures.