Gerry Lester Watson Jr., known as Bubba, recorded an average drive of 315.2 yards during the 2007 season, cementing his reputation as one of the longest hitters in professional golf. Since turning professional in 2002, the Bagdad, Florida native has secured 12 PGA Tour victories and claimed two major championships at the Masters Tournament in 2012 and 2014.
Early Development
Raised near Pensacola, Watson attended Milton High School, where he competed on the golf team alongside future professionals Heath Slocum and Boo Weekley. He continued his athletic career at Faulkner State Community College in Baldwin County, Alabama, earning junior college All-American status. He subsequently transferred to the University of Georgia, where he helped the Bulldogs secure the 2000 SEC title.
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Following a stint on the Nationwide Tour from 2002 until 2005, Watson qualified for the PGA Tour. His rookie 2006 season saw him lead the circuit in driving distance. In 2010, he achieved his first PGA Tour win at the Travelers Championship in a sudden-death playoff. He also finished as the runner-up at the 2010 PGA Championship following a playoff against Martin Kaymer at Whistling Straits.
Masters Success and LIV Transition
Watson reached a career-high world ranking of second in February 2015. His 2012 Masters victory required a sudden-death playoff against Louis Oosthuizen, decided by a recovery shot from the pine straw on the 10th hole. After years of competing on the PGA Tour, where he won 12 titles, he joined the LIV Golf League in 2022.
Fast facts
- Born: 1978, Bagdad, Florida
- Education: Milton High School, Faulkner State Community College, University of Georgia
- Masters Tournament Titles: 2012, 2014
- Career-High World Ranking: 2nd (February 2015)
- PGA Tour Victories: 12
- LIV Golf League Join Date: 2022
- Professional Debut: 2002
Questions readers ask
How many major championships has Bubba Watson won?
He has won two major championships, both at the Masters Tournament in 2012 and 2014.
Which golf leagues has Watson played in?
He played on the Nationwide Tour, the PGA Tour, and joined the LIV Golf League in 2022.
