John Daly, an American professional golfer known for his long drives, vibrant personality, and tumultuous personal life, has a net worth of approximately $2 million. A figure that, given his immense talent and career earnings, should have been significantly higher. However, a combination of gambling addiction, divorces, and substance abuse issues has dramatically eroded his wealth. Daly’s life and career have been a mix of major championship victories and public controversies, making him one of the most colorful and polarizing figures in the world of golf.
In this article, we explore John Daly’s career achievements, financial struggles, personal life, business ventures, and his ongoing battle with health issues.
Early Life and the Start of a Golfing Legend
John Patrick Daly was born on April 28, 1966, in Carmichael, California. Raised in a middle-class household, Daly moved frequently across various southern states before settling in Arkansas, where he discovered his passion for golf. Inspired by Jack Nicklaus, Daly started competing as a teenager, winning multiple championships and setting the stage for a successful professional career.
Daly’s upbringing was far from easy. His father, an alcoholic, was reportedly abusive—a trauma that would later influence John’s battles with alcoholism. Despite the challenges, Daly’s raw talent on the golf course was undeniable, and he turned professional in 1987, securing his first victory at the Missouri Open.
A Meteoric Rise: Major Championships and Career Earnings
John Daly’s breakthrough came in 1991 when he won the PGA Championship at Crooked Stick Golf Club in Indiana. Coming in as the ninth and final alternate without a practice round, Daly’s victory stunned the golf world. His powerful drives and aggressive style earned him the nickname “Long John” and cemented his status as a fan favorite.
Daly’s second major victory came at the 1995 Open Championship at St Andrews, further enhancing his reputation as a formidable golfer. Over his career, he secured five PGA Tour victories and three European Tour titles, amassing over $10 million in career earnings. In 2016, Daly joined the PGA Tour Champions, winning multiple events and proving he still had plenty of game.
However, Daly’s financial success on the course was undercut by severe personal and financial mismanagement, leading to his current net worth of just $2 million.
The Cost of Addiction: Gambling Losses and Financial Woes
One of the most shocking revelations about John Daly’s life was his gambling addiction. In his 2006 autobiography, Daly confessed to losing over $55 million in gambling, with total losses amounting to approximately $90 million and winnings of about $35 million. One incident in Las Vegas saw Daly lose $1.5 million in a single night playing slot machines. These losses, coupled with costly divorces and a lavish lifestyle, contributed significantly to his depleted net worth.
Daly’s transparency about his gambling addiction was both shocking and, in some ways, admirable. However, the financial impact was devastating, forcing him to rely heavily on sponsorships and appearance fees to stay afloat.
Personal Struggles: Substance Abuse and Legal Battles
John Daly’s battles with alcohol are well-documented. In 1994, he entered rehab following a suspension for walking off the course mid-round. Despite several attempts to quit drinking, his struggle continued for years. Daly’s alcoholism often made headlines, including a 2008 incident where he was found drunk outside a Hooters restaurant, resulting in a publicly circulated mugshot that further tarnished his image.
In a 2014 interview, Daly attributed his drinking problems to unresolved issues stemming from his father’s abuse. Despite these struggles, Daly has publicly claimed to have stopped drinking, a move that saw an improvement in his golf performance.
Legally, Daly faced issues too. In 2005, he sued the Florida Times-Union for libel after being called a “scoundrel.” The case was dismissed in 2009, with Daly ordered to pay over $300,000 in legal fees—a financial blow for the already struggling golfer.
Relationships and Family Turmoil
John Daly’s personal life has been tumultuous, marked by four marriages and numerous public disputes. His first marriage to Dale Crafton ended in 1990 after just three years. In 1992, he married Bettye Fulford, with whom he had a son. The marriage was marred by allegations of domestic violence, with Daly charged with third-degree assault for allegedly throwing Bettye against a wall.
Subsequent marriages to Paulette Dean and Sherrie Miller were equally troubled. His fourth marriage to Sherrie ended dramatically after an altercation involving a steak knife and accusations of drug-related offenses against Sherrie. Daly eventually gained custody of their son, adding further complexity to his personal life.
Business Ventures: Attempts to Rebuild
Despite his financial troubles, John Daly has ventured into business with mixed results. His endorsement deal with Loudmouth Golf, known for its bold apparel, has been one of his most successful partnerships. Daly also signed an agreement with Rock Bottom Golf, a discount golf retailer, which provided a steady income stream.
Daly’s other ventures include a wine label, John Daly Wines, which failed, and a golf course design company, JD Designs, which has seen some success with projects in California, Ireland, Canada, Missouri, and Arkansas. His involvement in video games like Prostroke Golf and Golden Tee provided additional financial avenues, although they were not enough to counteract his losses.
Music Career: A Surprising Passion
Apart from golf, John Daly has pursued a music career, releasing several albums including My Life and I Only Know One Way. Collaborating with artists like Willie Nelson and Kid Rock, Daly’s blend of country and rock was well-received by his fans, if not by critics. His 2022 album, Whiskey & Water, showcased his continued passion for music, offering a glimpse into the softer side of the otherwise brash golfer.
Health Challenges: A Battle for Survival
In addition to his financial and personal battles, Daly has faced serious health challenges. In 2009, he underwent lap-band surgery, shedding 100 pounds to combat obesity-related issues. In 2019, he nearly died after being bitten by a brown recluse spider, which led to emergency surgery for sepsis.
In 2022, Daly revealed he had been battling bladder cancer, requiring surgery. Although the operation was successful, doctors warned of an 85% chance of relapse. In response, Daly announced plans to quit smoking and reduce his consumption of Diet Coke—a staple of his diet for years.
Legacy: A Complicated Icon
John Daly’s legacy is as complicated as the man himself. With two major championships and a powerful influence on the sport, his contributions to golf are undeniable. However, his off-course issues—financial ruin, substance abuse, and legal troubles—paint a picture of a man whose immense potential was never fully realized.
Daly’s story serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of fame and fortune without financial discipline and self-control. His candor about his struggles has earned him a loyal fan base, but it has also highlighted the harsh realities faced by professional athletes unprepared for the pressures of success.
As John Daly continues to battle health issues and rebuild his life, his journey remains one of golf’s most fascinating and tragic narratives—a testament to the highs and lows of professional sports.