What is John Daly's Net Worth and Career Earnings?
John Daly is an American professional golfer with a net worth of $2 million. Despite his successful career, Daly's net worth has been significantly affected by his gambling addiction and multiple divorces.
Daly turned professional in 1987 and quickly made a name for himself by winning the PGA Championship in 1991, his first major title. He secured his second major victory at the 1995 Open Championship. Throughout his career, Daly won five PGA Tour events and three European Tour titles. However, personal issues, including alcohol addiction and gambling, overshadowed his professional achievements. Known for his non-traditional appearance and aggressive playing style, Daly's long drives earned him the nickname "Long John."
Gambling Losses
In his 2006 autobiography, Daly revealed his struggles with a gambling addiction, which greatly impacted his net worth. He claimed to have lost more than $55 million over his lifetime, detailing that he lost a total of $90 million but won back $35 million. One notable incident involved losing $1.5 million in one night at a Las Vegas slot machine in 2005.
Learn more about John Daly's gambling losses here
Early Life
John Patrick Daly was born on April 28, 1966, in Carmichael, California. Raised in a middle-class household, Daly moved frequently across southern states. His passion for golf began when his family settled in Arkansas. Inspired by Jack Nicklaus, Daly excelled in the sport, winning several championships as a teenager.
Career
John Daly's professional golf career began in 1987 with a victory at the Missouri Open. By 1990, he won the Ben Hogan Utah Classic. His stunning win at the 1991 PGA Championship marked him as a major contender in the golf world. Despite facing suspensions and rehab for alcohol abuse in 1994, Daly returned to prominence by winning the 1995 Open Championship.
After struggling with personal issues, Daly mounted a comeback by winning the BMW International Open in 2001. His wins continued with the Buick Invitational in 2004. Despite later setbacks, including knee surgery in 2022, Daly remains a competitive force on the PGA Tour Champions.
(Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
Relationships
John Daly married his first wife, Dale Crafton, in 1987; they divorced in 1990. He then married Bettye Fulford in 1992, and they had a daughter. Their tumultuous relationship ended in divorce in 1995. Daly's third marriage to Paulette Dean in 1995 resulted in another child but ended in divorce in 1999. His fourth marriage to Sherrie Miller in 2001 produced a son. The couple's relationship was marred by legal issues and they eventually divorced, with Daly receiving custody of their son.
Business Ventures
John Daly has engaged in various business ventures. He has an endorsement deal with Loudmouth Golf, a clothing line known for its bold designs. In 2014, he signed another deal with Rock Bottom Golf, a discount golf store. Daly also launched a wine label, John Daly Wines, which eventually closed. His golf course design company, JD Designs, has designed courses in several locations including California, Ireland, Canada, Missouri, and Arkansas. Daly's likeness appears in video games like "Prostroke Golf" and "Golden Tee."
Music
Apart from golf, Daly has pursued a career in music. In 2007, he contributed vocals to Kid Rock's song "Half Your Age." Daly has released several albums, including "I Only Know One Way" in 2010. His first album, "My Life," featured guest vocals from Willie Nelson and Johnny Lee. In March 2022, he released "Whiskey & Water."
Substance Abuse Issues
John Daly has publicly discussed his struggles with substance abuse. In 1994, he claimed that, unlike many fellow PGA Tour players, he did not use cocaine, though he admitted to alcohol addiction. In 2008, his swing coach abandoned him due to his drinking problem. After a 2008 incident where Daly was found drunk outside a Hooters, he decided to quit drinking, resulting in improved golf performance. Daly attributes his drinking issues to memories of his abusive, alcoholic father.
Health Issues
John Daly has faced numerous health challenges. In 2009, he underwent lap-band surgery, which helped him lose 100 pounds, improving his overall health. In 2019, a brown recluse spider bite led to sepsis, requiring emergency surgery. In 2002, Daly was diagnosed with bladder cancer. After surgery, he vowed to stop smoking and drinking Diet Coke to reduce the high chance of cancer recurrence.
Legal Issues
In 2005, John Daly attempted to sue the "Florida Times-Union" for libel, following a columnist’s derogatory comments. However, he lost the case in 2009 and was ordered to pay over $300,000 in legal fees as he could not prove the inaccuracy of the statements.
