Rocco Mediate is known for his gregarious personality as well as his achievements as a golfer. A presence on the Professional Golf Association tour for nearly three decades, As of July 2011, Mediate hasn't won a major championship, but he will be remembered for his excellent play and good humor as he challenged Tiger Woods during the 2008 U.S. Open Championship.
Beginnings
Rocco Anthony Mediate was born to Anthony and Donna Mediate on Dec. 17, 1962, in Greensburg, Pennsylvania. Mediate played baseball during his youth and picked up golf in high school. Mediate graduated from Hempfield Area High School in 1980. He attended Florida Southern College. Jim Ferree, a member of the Champions Tour, is credited with shaping Mediate's swing while at Florida Southern. Mediate turned pro in 1985.
Back Problems
Mediate has suffered from back ailments the majority of his professional career. Initially, he relieved pressure on his back by using a long putter. Mediate has also used acupuncture, physical trainers, Pilates and surgery to relieve his back pain. He won his first PGA tour title at the Doral Open in 1991, becoming the first golfer ever to win a PGA event using a long putter.
2008 U.S. Open Championship
At the end of the fourth round of the 2008 U.S. Open, Mediate was tied for the lead with Woods. Mediate and Woods played a full 18-hole playoff round. Both golfers shot par, so Mediate and Woods played one sudden death hole. Woods shot par, but Mediate bogeyed the seventh hole, giving Woods the victory.
Career Summary
Considered to be one of the best putters in golf, Mediate has 10 professional tour wins, as of July 2011, and is 45th on the all-time PGA Tour earnings list. He no longer uses a long putter but continues to seek treatment for his back. Mediate has earned more than $16 million playing golf.
Posted in: Golf