“Nobody knew what golf was” – 60-year-old Bernhard Langer shares CANDID story during final speech at retirement

Bernhard Langer was the first golfer to be ranked number one in the Official World Golf Rankings when they debuted in 1986.

“Nobody knew what golf was” – 60-year-old Bernhard Langer shares CANDID story during final speech at retirement

Bernhard Langer is hanging up his clubs (Image via IMAGO)

Bernhard Langer bid an emotional farewell to the DP World Tour, bringing his legendary 50-year career on the European circuit to an end. Although he missed the cut at the BMW International Open, Langer received a standing ovation as he walked off the 18th green.

Langer grew up in a small village where “nobody knew what golf was.” It is amazing to even think that he would become one of the decorated players in European golf history. After his final start on the DP World Tour, Langer expressed gratitude for living his dream.

It's kind of been a dream come true for me, growing up in a village of 800 people where nobody knew what golf was. When I told my classmates that I was going to play golf they thought I was crazy, they thought I was a mini-golfer. People had no idea, it was really a strange situation.
Bernhard Langer said

He competed against greats like Seve Ballesteros, Nick Faldo, and Ian Woosnam. Langer faced challenges, including struggling with the putting yips, but his resilience and passion never wavered. Langer’s contributions as a player and Ryder Cup captain made him earn the respect of fans. Looking back on his journey, the veteran said:

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Even when I finished school and I tried to become a golf professional people didn't even know what that was, it didn't even exist as a profession in a way. So it was very difficult and complicated but it was my dream. I was able to live that dream for 50 years.
Bernhard Langer told reporters

Reflecting on his incredible 50-year career on the DP World Tour, Bernhard Langer conveyed his sincere appreciation for all the amazing memories he has made while traveling the world. He visited places in America, South Africa, Australia, Japan, and Asia.

Langer reflected on the honor of meeting and playing golf with such a wide range of people. This included common laborers like bricklayers and butchers, as well as prosperous businessmen. He spoke warmly of these encounters, calling them “fun” and “great.”

Everything you need to know about Bernhard Langer

Bernhard Langer is a German professional golfer with an estimated net worth of $42 million as of 2024. He is considered one of the greatest golfers of all time, with numerous career achievements and earnings.

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Career Highlights

  • Two-time Masters champion (1985, 1993)
  • The first golfer to be ranked number one in the Official World Golf Rankings when they debuted in 1986
  • Second most career wins on the European Tour with 42 victories
  • One of only five golfers to have won official tournaments on all six continents where golf is played
  • Played on ten Ryder Cup teams, winning five times, and was the non-playing captain of the victorious European team in 2004

Career Earnings

  • Total career earnings through 2021 on the PGA Tour and PGA Tour Champions were more than $42 million

Senior Career

  • Won a record 12 senior major championships and been the money leader in a record 11 seasons
  • Achieved the career Senior Grand Slam by winning each of the five major championships at least once during his career.

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