File photo of domestic legend Vijay Kumar of Lucknow in action at Ahmedabad’s Kensville course some years ago. Image courtesy DP World PGTI.
By Rahul Banerji
Former Indian Open champion Vijay Kumar passed away following a heart attack at home in Lucknow on Tuesday. He was 57 and is survived by his wife and family.
Born in Lucknow on September 29, 1968, Kumar was one of the most consistent performers on the domestic circuit for close to two decades, having turned professional in 1988.
His Indian Open victory at Delhi Golf Club in 2002 followed those by Ali Sher (1991, 1993), Feroze Ali Mollah (1998), Arjun Atwal (1999) and Jyoti Randhawa (2000), who would win it again in 2006 and 2007.
A four-time winner of the domestic Order of Merit between 1995 and 2000, Vijay Kumar was also joint runner-up at the Indian Open in 2006 alongside S.S.P. Chawrasia when they lost to Randhawa in a playoff.
While exact numbers vary, the Lucknow golfer is credited with winning over a hundred titles at varying levels and it remains a matter of regret for many that he did not parlay his Indian Open win into greater international exposure, especially on the Asian Tour.
Respected name
On Wednesday, the DP World Professional Golf Tour of India mourned his passing, calling him “among the most accomplished and respected names in Indian professional golf”.
In a statement, the DP World PGTI said, “He (Kumar) dominated Indian domestic golf from the mid-1990s to the early part of the next decade with an illustrious career marked by numerous titles.
“Vijay’s iconic triumph at the 2002 Indian Open remains a landmark moment in Indian golf.
“He remains one of only nine Indian golfers to have won the Indian Open title. Vijay also represented India at the Alfred Dunhill Cup 1999 played at St. Andrews in Scotland.
“Widely admired for his skill, consistency, competitive spirit and exemplary conduct, Vijay inspired generations of golfers and contributed significantly to the growth of the sport in the country.
“Beyond his achievements, the ever-smiling Vijay will be remembered for his positive attitude, cheerful nature, great sense of humour and sportsmanship.”
True stalwart
Said tour president Kapil Dev,“Vijay Kumar ji was one of the true stalwarts of Indian golf. His achievements, humility and commitment to the sport made him a role model for generations of golfers.
“His passing is a great loss to Indian golf, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.”
Added tour CEO Amandeep Johl,“Vijay Kumar was among the finest professionals Indian golf has seen.
“His victory at the 2002 Indian Open and his four Order of Merit titles will always be remembered as part of our sport’s proud history.
“He contributed immensely to the growth of professional golf in India and will continue to inspire players for years to come.”
Also read: Indian professional golf loses stalwarts Shiv Prakash, Yusuf Ali
Related
Discover more from Tee Time Tales
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.