San Diego has produced some of the most talented and influential golfers in history. From legendary figures like Mickey Wright and Billy Casper to modern stars such as Phil Mickelson and Xander Schauffele, the region has been a breeding ground for excellence.
These golfers have achieved major championships, PGA Tour victories, and global recognition while representing their hometowns with pride. This list of the Top 10 Golfers From San Diego highlights their skill, resilience, and lasting impact on the game of golf.
1. Mickey Wright: A Swing for the Ages
Mary Kathryn Wright, better known as Mickey Wright, is widely regarded as the greatest female golfer in history. Born in San Diego in 1935, she developed her skills at local venues such as La Jolla Country Club. The 1960s showcased her dominance with 82 LPGA Tour titles and 13 major championships.
In 1963 alone, she won 13 tournaments. Wright also became the only player to hold all four major LPGA titles at the same time from 1961 to 1962. Her swing was praised by Ben Hogan as the finest he had ever seen, a testament to her technical mastery.
Mickey Wright2. Billy Casper: The Quiet Champion
Billy Casper, another San Diego native, is often considered one of golf’s most underrated legends. Beginning his career as a caddie at San Diego Country Club, he grew into a formidable competitor during the era of the Big Three. Casper won 51 PGA Tour events, including the 1959 and 1966 U.S. Opens and the 1970 Masters.
Known for his exceptional short game and putting skills, he also holds the record for most Ryder Cup points earned by an American at 23.5. Casper’s precision and strategic approach earned him respect from peers and fans alike.
Billy Casper3. Phil Mickelson: Lefty’s Enduring Brilliance
Phil Mickelson, affectionately called Lefty, is one of the most popular golfers of the modern era. Born in San Diego and a graduate of University of San Diego High School, he developed his aggressive style and expert short game in his backyard.
Over his career, Mickelson has won 45 PGA Tour events and six major championships, including three Masters titles. In 2021, he became the oldest major champion at 50. His combination of skill, charisma, and fearless play has made him an enduring figure in golf, admired by fans around the world.
Phil Mickelson4. Gene Littler: Precision and Resilience
Gene Littler, nicknamed Gene the Machine, was celebrated for his smooth and consistent swing. A standout at San Diego State University, he captured the 1961 U.S. Open and 29 PGA Tour victories during his career.
Littler’s determination was evident when he returned to professional golf following melanoma surgery in 1972. His steady performance and technical excellence earned him induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1990. Littler exemplified the combination of talent and persistence required to compete at the highest level.
Gene Littler5. Xander Schauffele: Composure in Competition
Representing the new generation of San Diego golfers, Xander Schauffele has quickly become a top competitor on the PGA Tour. A San Diego native and San Diego State University alumnus, he has captured multiple PGA Tour victories and earned a gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
By 2026, he reached a career-high world ranking of number four. Schauffele is known for his calm demeanor under pressure, which has made him a key contributor to the U.S. Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup teams. His steady performance continues to define his growing career.
Xander Schauffele6. Craig Stadler: The Walrus’ Journey
Craig Stadler, called The Walrus for his distinctive appearance, was one of golf’s most memorable personalities. Born in San Diego, he won the 1982 Masters and collected 13 PGA Tour victories along with nine Champions Tour titles.
Stadler also achieved notable amateur success, including the 1973 U.S. Amateur while attending USC. His career combined competitive skill with a recognizable presence on tour, making him a beloved figure and an enduring representative of San Diego golf.
Craig Stadler7. Scott Simpson: Steady and Reliable
Scott Simpson grew up in San Diego, inspired by local legends such as Billy Casper and Gene Littler. He attended Morse High School and later played at USC before achieving professional success. Simpson captured seven PGA Tour victories, including the 1987 U.S. Open, edging out Tom Watson in a dramatic finish.
Known for his accurate and steady style, Simpson earned respect as a golfer who relied on consistency and precision rather than flash, demonstrating that discipline and focus can deliver championship results.
Scott Simpson8. J.J. Spaun: Rising Through the Ranks
J.J. Spaun has emerged as a leading figure in modern San Diego golf. A San Diego State University graduate, he won the 2025 U.S. Open and climbed to number six in the world rankings by 2026.
Prior to this major victory, Spaun had already made a mark on the PGA Tour, including his win at the 2022 Valero Texas Open. His ability to remain composed in high-pressure situations has distinguished him as one of the brightest talents to come out of San Diego in recent years.
J.J. Spaun9. Charley Hoffman: Longevity and Community Impact
Charley Hoffman hails from Poway and has maintained a nearly 20-year career on the PGA Tour. With four victories on tour, he has demonstrated long-term consistency and dedication.
Beyond his competitive achievements, Hoffman has contributed to the community through the Charley Hoffman Foundation, supporting local initiatives. His combination of professional excellence and community involvement illustrates how a golfer can achieve recognition both on and off the course while representing San Diego with pride.
Charley Hoffman10. Phil Rodgers: Master of the Short Game
Phil Rodgers of La Jolla earned fame both as a player and as a teacher. An accomplished amateur, he won the 1958 NCAA Championship and later captured five PGA Tour victories. Rodgers finished as runner-up in both the U.S. Open and British Open, narrowly missing additional major titles.
His influence extended through coaching, helping Jack Nicklaus redesign his wedge game, and contributing to Nicklaus’ 1980 U.S. Open victory. Rodgers’ expertise and mentorship left a lasting impact on golf, shaping players and the way the game is played.
Phil RodgersThe Top 10 Golfers From San Diego showcase a remarkable legacy of talent, perseverance, and dedication. From trailblazers like Gene Littler to rising stars such as J.J. Spaun, each has left a unique mark on the sport.
Their achievements span decades, demonstrating that San Diego continues to produce golfers capable of competing at the highest level. Beyond trophies and rankings, these athletes represent the spirit and community of their hometowns, inspiring future generations to pursue excellence on and off the course.
