Named as 2004 US Ryder Cup Captain shortly after making his fourth appearance in the Matches at The De Vere Belfry in 2002 where he won his foursomes outing with Scott Verplank but lost his singles tie to, ironically, the man who will be his opposite number at Oakland Hills Country Club in September, Bernhard Langer. Born into a wealthy family, who own an oil company in his home town of Shreveport, Louisiana. Turned professional in 1981 after the second of his Walker Cup appearances. Became one of the brightest young stars in the game in early and mid-1980s with seven victories in his first five years on Tour. Defeated Jack Nicklaus by a shot to land the 1983 US PGA Championship. Went nine years without victory before capturing the 1995 BC Open. Produced a big finish to the Players Championship in Florida in March 2000, edging out Tiger Woods down the stretch to collect the biggest official prize of the year 2000 - $1,080,000. Donated $100,000 to his alma mater Centenary College and to United Way of Northeast Louisiana from that winning prize cheque. As a side business and hobby, he rides and sells cutting horses. Began his first term as member of the US PGA Tour's Policy Board in 2000. Is also developing a golf course design business. His first course, Old Oaks, opened in Bossier City, Louisiana in October 1999.