Golf legend John Daly no longer plays on the PGA Tour as frequently as he once did, but the two-time major winner has still managed to secure a lucrative new deal
Joshua Mbu Senior Sports Reporter
00:03 ET, 21 May 2025
John Daly remains committed to Hooters(Image: Getty Images)
John Daly has renewed his legendary partnership with Hooters, signing a new contract despite sharing a worrying update on his health and opting out of the PGA Championship.
The 59-year-old golf icon, who has a lifetime exemption for the major due to his memorable 1991 victory, missed the PGA Championship following emergency surgery on his left hand in January. Instead, Daly chose to play in the Regions Tradition in Birmingham, Alabama, one of this year’s five majors on the PGA Tour Champions circuit.
“I can go there [PGA Championship] and miss the cut and get $6,000. But I’m playing Birmingham. I love Regions. They’re a great sponsor,” Daly commented. On his health, he remarked: “Waking up is a win for me.”
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Yet Daly remains a popular figure in men’s golf. He’s inked a deal with Hooters for at least two more years.
“I’m like Lazarus – I keep coming back from the dead,” said Daly when he returned to action at the Hoag Classic. “I didn’t think I’d been out here for three decades, I’ve only been dead 11 times… 16 surgeries in four years, I’ve lost count pretty much.”
Hooters is buzzing with excitement to have Daly continue as its frontman, with the golfer being a stalwart supporter of the brand for ages. “We love John’s ability to keep on swinging and perpetually keep his eye on the win,” said Bruce Skala, Hooters chief marketing officer.
Daly’s trips to Hooters are big business for him and the restaurant(Image: Getty Images)
“His larger-than-life personality and authenticity makes him the perfect fit for Hooters. We are ecstatic our renewed pairing with John brings Hooters fans and guests another round of fun.”
Daly said on his new contract: “No matter how I play on the golf course, I always enjoy having a round with wings at Hooters.
“It’s a place that feels like family, and I’m proud to keep reppin’ a brand that knows how to grip it, rip it, and have a good time.
“We’ve got wings, cold drinks-including a few Good Boy Vodka cocktails with my name on’ em-and the best fans in the world. Let’s go another round.”
On top of his endorsement deals on and off the fairway, Daly is set to be a major player in the much-anticipated Happy ‘Gilmore 2’ film alongside Hollywood heavy-hitter Adam Sandler. Daly will portray Happy Gilmore’s big bro.
“I’m kind of Happy’s brother. Hopefully, it’s coming out July 25th. I haven’t heard when the premiere is coming out,” Daly said on ‘Like a Farmer Podcast.’
“But I had a blast. And Adam’s been a friend of mine for a long time. We just had a blast doing it. It’s funny, funny, funny. That’s all I’m going to say. It is awesome.
“He’s amazing. He’s probably one of the best for-seeked actors right now. And he was more into this one. maybe. He produces a lot of his movies.”
