Golden State Warriors’ superstar Stephen Curry is renowned for his basketball prowess and his passion for golf. But it’s his dedication to using his platform for good, specifically in the realm of golf, that has garnered widespread attention and admiration.

 

The World Golf Hall of Fame announced on Tuesday that in 2024, Curry will be honored with the Charlie Sifford Award, recognizing his significant contributions to advancing diversity in golf.

 

 

Curry’s impact on the sport goes beyond his role as a basketball icon. He has actively worked to make golf more inclusive and accessible to individuals of all genders, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds. In 2021, he launched “Underrated Golf,” a purpose-driven initiative committed to promoting equity, access, and opportunities for student-athletes from diverse communities, aiming to create a more inclusive golf landscape.

 

Underrated Golf’s mission, as stated on their website, includes addressing the historical inequalities within golf. They offer young, overlooked golfers unique programming experiences, such as speaker series and networking events, to help them build successful careers and connections within the golf industry. The platform also serves as a recruitment tool for corporations looking to hire future leaders aligned with their mission of advancing diversity.

 

Curry’s dedication extends further. He played a pivotal role in resurrecting the golf program at Howard University, which had been dormant since the 1970s. Not only did he help bring back the program, but he also pledged to fund both the men’s and women’s teams for six years, making Howard University the 31st Historically Black College or University (HBCU) and the 12th Division 1 HBCU with a golf program.

Greg McLaughlin, CEO of the World Golf Hall of Fame, commended Curry’s commitment to diversifying golf, stating that it reflects the groundbreaking work of Charlie Sifford. The World Golf Hall of Fame, in partnership with Southern Company, aims to ensure that Curry’s legacy, like Sifford’s, endures for future generations by recognizing those dedicated to creating an inclusive golf environment.

While Curry’s efforts to promote accessibility and equity in golf are significant, it’s worth noting that he’s an exceptional golfer himself. In July, he won the American Century Championship tournament in Tahoe, becoming just the second active athlete to achieve this feat.

 

Curry will receive the Charlie Sifford Award at the 2024 World Golf Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, coinciding with the 124th US Open at the Pinehurst Resort and Country Club in his home state of North Carolina. Although he is undoubtedly excited and honored to receive the award, Curry will be hoping to avoid a scheduling conflict with the NBA Finals should the Warriors make a run for a fifth title.