Lee Elder, the legendary golfer who was the first African-American to compete in the Master’s, has sadly passed away at 87. Fans of the sportsman are curious to know how much he has made over his prolific career.
The golfer took part in the traditional ceremonial start to the Masters in April 2021. Since then, it seems his health unfortunately declined.
Let’s discover more about Lee Elder, his family and his extensive career.
- MORE: Who is Lee Elder’s wife?
Lee Elder’s net worth
Lee Elder has an estimated net worth of $7 million.
Elder was among the greatest golfers in the sport and another legend, Tiger Woods, acknowledged him as an inspiration for his career. “Lee Elder meant a lot to me because he was the first (black golfer).
“He was the one I looked up to and, because of what he did, I was able to play and to live my dream,” Woods explained.
Who is Lee Elder’s wife Sharon?
Sharon Elder is Lee’s second wife. She has been married to him for more than 40 years. The couple lived together in San Diego before Lee moved to the Pompano residence home.
Sharon was originally Lee’s golfing manager but, as the pair developed a closer bond, they began dating. Sharon and Lee often attended PGA and JEGC events together to show their support for the organisations.
Lee’s first wife, Rose Harper, was also a golfer and the pair met at a tournament in Washington, DC. The pair married in 1966. After getting married, Rose gave up her career to become his manager. After almost a decade of marriage, however, the pair divorced and Lee went on to meet Sharon.
Legendary golfer dies at 87 years old
Lee Elder, aka Robert Lee Elder, was born on 14 July 1934 in Dallas, Texas.
At ten years old he became an orphan as his father was killed in the Second World War and his mother died shortly after.
After moving to Los Angeles he gained a keen interest in golf and began working at his local golf course. While there Lee met Joe Louis and Ted Rhodes, who helped teach Lee golf skills.
After joining the army for a short time he went on to join the United Golfers Association Tour for black players.
Elder became the first African-American to feature in the Ryder Cup for Team USA in 1979 and during his PGA Tour career he collected four titles.
We send our condolences to Lee Elder’s family, friends and fans at this difficult time.
