During the 2023 Masters Tournament, Frederick Steven Couples became the oldest player to make the tournament cut at 63 years, six months, and five days. Known as Boom Boom for his driving distance, he remains a consistent force in professional golf with a career spanning decades on both the PGA Tour and the PGA Tour Champions.
Early Development and Amateur Success
Born in Seattle in 1959 to Tom and Violet Couples, the future professional honed his signature rhythmic swing without formal coaching. He graduated from O'Dea High School in 1977 before accepting a golf scholarship to the University of Houston. By 1978, he demonstrated early potential as a 19-year-old amateur by winning the Washington Open at Glendale Country Club.
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Couples secured his initial PGA Tour victory at the 1983 Kemper Open. Over his career, he achieved 64 professional tournament wins, including the Players Championship in 1984 and 1996. His performance at the 1992 Masters Tournament marked his sole major title win. In that same year, he reached the number one position in the Official World Golf Rankings, becoming the first American player to hold that spot since the system debuted in 1986.
Longevity and Physical Challenges
Since 1994, chronic back issues have complicated his career, partly due to a swing mechanic involving significant shoulder turn while maintaining a flat left foot. Despite these injuries, he maintained competitive form, winning the 2003 Shell Houston Open and later transitioning to the PGA Tour Champions. In the senior circuit, he claimed the 2011 Senior Players Championship and the 2012 Senior Open Championship, leading to his induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2013.
Skins Game Dominance
Frequent success in made-for-TV winter events earned him the title King of the Silly Season. He earned the moniker Mr. Skins for his performance in the Skins Game, where he accumulated over $3.5 million and 77 skins across 11 appearances. His victories in the event occurred in 1995, 1996, 1999, 2003, and 2004.
Fast facts
- Born: 1959, Seattle
- Nickname: Boom Boom
- Education: O'Dea High School
- 1992 Masters Tournament winner
- Players Championship titles: 1984, 1996
- World Golf Hall of Fame inductee: 2013
- Total professional tournament wins: 64
- PGA Tour Player of the Year: 1991, 1992
Questions readers ask
What is the origin of the name Couples?
His paternal grandparents immigrated from Italy and changed the family name from Coppola to Couples to sound less ethnic.
Why is he called Mr. Skins?
He is referred to as Mr. Skins due to his five victories and overall financial dominance in the Skins Game event.
