Vijay Singh

Early Influences and Golfing Inspiration

Singh’s father, Mohan, introduced him to golf during childhood. Financial constraints prevented the family from affording proper golf equipment, leading Singh to improvise—practicing his swing using coconuts instead of golf balls. He meticulously studied and modeled his swing after that of American professional golfer Tom Weiskopf, whose technique he deeply admired.

First Years as a Professional Golfer

Singh turned professional in 1982. Two years later, he captured the Malaysian Professional Golfers' Association Championship. However, in 1985, he faced scrutiny for altering a scorecard, leading to a suspension and ultimately a lifetime ban from the Asian Professional Golfers’ Association Tour after the infractions were confirmed. Despite this setback, Singh persisted and continued competing in international tournaments.

In 1988, he moved to South Africa to participate in the Safari Tour, sponsored by Red Baron. That year he won the Nigerian Open and repeated the win in 1989. His 1988 victory marked the first time a person of Fijian-Indian descent had captured the title. He also qualified for the European Tour and claimed wins at the Volvo Open di Firenze in Italy, the Ivory Coast Open, and the Zimbabwe Open. Singh concluded that season 24th on the European Tour Order of Merit and tied for 23rd at the British Open—a marked improvement from his earlier challenges.