Scott Hoch Early Life, Amateur Career, and PGA Tour Debut
Scott Hoch is an American professional golfer born on November 24, 1955, in Raleigh, North Carolina. He attended the University of Houston and was a standout on the golf team, helping the Cougars win the 1977 NCAA Division I Championship. Hoch turned professional in 1978 and joined the PGA Tour, where he built a reputation as a steady, clutch competitor over decades of play.
On the PGA Tour, Hoch recorded 26 official wins, including the 1986 NEC World Series of Golf and the 1991 Federal Express St. Jude Classic. He consistently ranked among the top money earners during the late 1980s and 1990s, and his career earnings placed him among the tour's top all-time money list players. Hoch's short game and putting were frequently cited as key strengths that helped him convert chances into victories.
Major Championship Performances and International Team Appearances
Hoch's best finish in a major came at the 1986 U.S. Open, where he held the 54-hole lead before finishing as runner-up to Raymond Floyd. He also finished tied for second at the 1987 Masters and recorded multiple top-10s in The Open Championship and PGA Championship. His major consistency made him one of the most recognizable American golfers of his generation.
Internationally, Hoch represented the United States in the Ryder Cup in 1983, 1985, 1987, 1989, 1991, and 1993. He compiled a strong record in singles and foursomes matches, contributing to U.S. victories in 1983 and 1993. Hoch also played on the U.S. teams that won the 1984 and 1988 World Cup of Golf, adding international titles to his resume.
Later Career, Champions Tour Wins, and Business Interests
After reaching the PGA Tour Champions eligibility age, Hoch continued competing on the Champions Tour, where he added several victories, including the 2014 Constellation Senior Players Championship. His longevity on tour kept him in the public eye and reinforced his status as one of the most consistent American golfers of the modern era. Hoch's career earnings across the PGA Tour and Champions Tour have been tracked by official tour recordkeepers.
Off the course, Hoch has been involved in golf course design and business ventures related to the sport. His profile is frequently referenced in discussions of top PGA Tour earners and career win leaders. For more details on his career statistics and earnings, the PGA Tour official website provides comprehensive data on his wins and finishes.