Tim O’Neal Finding Act Two on PGA Tour Champions

This content was first published in the Fall 2023 issue of Golf Journal, a quarterly print and monthly digital publication exclusively for USGA Members. To be among the first to receive Golf Journal and to learn how you can help make golf more open for all, become a USGA Member today.

My golf journey is now into its sixth decade – how did that happen? But this might be the best one yet, as I embark on my first year on the PGA Tour Champions. (O’Neal is now in his fourth full season on the circuit, where he owns one victory: the 2024 Dominion Charity Classic.)

Growing up in Savannah, Ga., I was fortunate to have parents who introduced me to the game at a young age and nurtured my love for it. It was a family thing for us, and we played any chance we could get. My mom and dad were great role models, on and off the course. Even though they’re no longer here, I know they are looking down upon me with pride.

Since graduating from Jackson State in 1997, I’m probably better-known for my near-misses at PGA Tour Q-School than my three PGA Tour Latinoamérica victories or my nine wins on the Advocates Pro Golf Association (APGA) Tour, which has done such a great job providing playing opportunities to minority golfers. That’s fine by me. I always believed I had the game to play on the PGA Tour; it just didn’t work out that way.

Now, I am enjoying a fresh start with the 50-and-over crowd. Maybe above all, golf teaches perseverance – I know that as well as anyone. Hopefully, I can bring home some hardware and fulfill the potential I’ve always known I have. 

Tim O’Neal is competing in this week’s U.S. Senior Open at Scioto Country Club, in Columbus, Ohio. It will be his first start in the championship.