“Young Tom” Morris lived a short life however that did not stop him from becoming a legend much like his father “Old Tom” Morris. As a player “Young Tom” was a prodigy and began winning tournaments as a teen. He has been compared to a young Arnold Palmer, handsome, strong, and a gifted golfer.

Tom Morris Jr. won his first exhibition at the tender age of 13 and earned a tidy sum of 15 pounds. Three years late he won the Open Professional Tournament at Carnoustie. He followed that up the next year by becoming the youngest winner of the British Open in 1968.

Amazingly he won four British Opens in a row beginning in 1968 and ending in 1872 (the British Open was not held in 1871). The win in 1868 was record setting in two ways: he was the youngest winner and it was the first and only time a son and father finished first and second in the British Open or any major championship. “Old Tom” and “Young Tom” won eight of the first twelve British Opens. The Claret Jug was made the British Open’s trophy in 1872 making “Young Tom” the first winner of the Claret Jug.

Sadly one year after marrying his wife and son died during child birth. Three months later “Young Tom” passed away and some say he died of a broken heart. “Young Tom” passed away at the age of 24.

In the modern times “Young Tom”’s game would be the complete package. He had a golf game that seemed to be void of weakness, had the strength and agility of a top athlete, had a completive spirit without compare, and had an even temperament. He used these skills to become the idol golfer of the time.

A plaque outside the St Andrews Cathedral immortalizes the spirit of “Young Tom” Morris. It says:

“Deeply regretted by numerous friends and all golfers, he thrice in succession won the championship belt and held it without rivalry and yet without envy, his many amiable golfing qualities being no less acknowledged than his golfing achievements.”

Tom Morris Jr. Bio
Date of Birth: April 20, 1851
Date of Death: Dec. 25, 1875

Tom Morris Jr. Accomplishments
1867: Open Professional Tournament at Carnousite
1868: British Open
1869: British Open
1870: British Open
1872: British Open