PGA Tour veteran and British Open champion Stewart Cink sits down for an exclusive interview. He opens up about his surprising move to the PGA Champions Tour and why it feels like coming home, revealing the loneliness he felt competing against players his sons’ age.
Cink also gives a incredibly detailed, firsthand account of his legendary 2009 British Open playoff victory over Tom Watson. He shares his unique perspective on that unforgettable battle, what it was like to be part of such a historic moment, and the surprising relationship he’s had with Watson since.
Find out how winning his first major championship at 36 changed his mentality and confidence, and whether he has his sights set on being a future Ryder Cup captain.
This is a must-watch for any golf fan interested in the PGA Tour, Champions Tour, major championships, and the stories behind the game’s biggest moments.
Keywords: Stewart Cink, PGA Champions Tour, The Ally Challenge, British Open, Tom Watson, Golf Major Championship, Warwick Hills, Ryder Cup, PGA Tour, Golf Interview, Professional Golf, Golf History
Stuart Sink, the reigning champion, is gearing up for this week’s Ally Challenge presented by McLaren, a prestigious event on the PGA Champions Tour, taking place at the Warwick Hills Golf and Country Club. Recently during a media day, sports editor David Tropins had the opportunity to engage Sync in a conversation that spanned various topics, including his experiences on the Champions Tour and his memorable victory over Tom Watson in a playoff to clinch the British Open title. Here’s a glimpse into that insightful dialogue. Troppins kicked off the conversation by asking, “What do you enjoy most about the Champions Tour?” Sink responded enthusiastically. The most significant aspect for me is the familiarity with everyone involved. At 52 years old, being on the PGA Tour can feel isolating. While I know many players and they recognize me, there’s often a lack of genuine connection. Since most of them are closer in age to my children, this can create a rather lonely atmosphere. I often found myself questioning the purpose of my efforts on the PGA Tour, especially when I had the Champions Tour waiting for me, where I have established relationships with the players. Plus, I get to explore new venues. Although Warick Hills is familiar, many tournaments introduce me to new courses and towns, which I find enjoyable to discover. Tropins then inquired, “Did your victory on the Champions Tour help ease your transition?” Sink clarified, “Actually, it was the opposite. You asked if winning made the adjustment easier, but I believe that adjusting my mindset to embrace the Champions Tour made it easier for me to win.” Just before last year’s Ally Challenge, I made a commitment to focus on the Champions Tour after discussing it with my wife. The ally challenge was my first tournament following that decision. So I would say the adjustment came first leading to my success. Tropins clearly intrigued brought up a topic that many fans would love to hear about. I’m sure you’ve been asked this countless times, but I have to mention the British Open. As a fan of Tom Watson, I recorded those final rounds when you triumphed over him in a playoff. How do you reflect on that experience? Sinks eyes lit up as he recalled, “I can vividly remember every shot and every moment from that day. It feels like it happened just yesterday. It’s astonishing to think that it’s been 16 years since that incredible experience. Winning my first major championship is undoubtedly a highlight, but the fact that Tom Watson was such a significant part of the playoff made it even more surreal and special. I never imagined I would be competing against him for my first major title. Tropins followed up with a question about their relationship since that iconic match. Have you and Tom ever discussed that moment since then? Sink replied, “We maintain a cordial relationship, though I don’t see him often. When we do cross paths, he’s always friendly and checks in on my game, asking how things are going. He has stepped back from competitive golf, so our encounters are rare. However, when I see him at events like the Masters, he always takes the time to ask about my progress. It’s clear he cares and I believe he wants me to succeed as it reflects positively on that memorable week he had. Troppins then posed a thought-provoking question. How did winning the Open impact your career and your life? Sink thoughtfully responded. I wouldn’t say it transformed my life as I believe lifealtering tournaments are typically for younger players in their 20s. At 36, I had already established my presence on the tour with multiple wins and appearances on Ryder Cup teams. So, while it didn’t change my life, it did shift my mindset. The satisfaction that comes from winning a tournament of that caliber is immense. It’s what every golfer dreams of from the moment they pick up a club and achieving that victory instills a profound sense of confidence and belonging. That’s the most significant change for me. Tropins then asked about Sink’s aspirations for the future. You mentioned the Ryder Cup. Would you be interested in captaining the Ryder Cup someday? Sinks enthusiasm was evident as he replied, “Absolutely. I would love that opportunity. I’ve had the privilege of serving as an assistant for both the RDER Cup and the President’s Cup. Being able to captain the RDER Cup would be an incredible honor. This conversation not only highlights Sink’s journey and experiences, but also opens the floor for discussion. What are your thoughts on the impact of age in professional sports? Do you believe that the Champions Tour offers a more fulfilling experience for seasoned players? Share your opinions in the comments.
