Paul Azinger has got what he considers the greatest honor of his career. He was announced on Monday as a Payne Stewart Award recipient, recognizing the traits that belong to his best friend on the PGA Tour.
The award began in 2000, a year after Stewart and three others died in a crash on a plane. Live music was broadcast from Atlanta during the tour championship in August, making it one of golf’s top awards.
“Being named the recipient of this award representing my beloved friend is one of the proudest moments of my life,” Azinger said.
Azinger has won the PGA Tour 12 times, including the 1993 PGA Championship. He is equally known for rebuilding the Ryder Cup qualifying system and leading Americans to a rare victory over Europe in 2008. Currently working as a TV analyst for the PGA Tour Champion.
The award honors players who show their commitment to character, sportsmanship and charity. In 2021, Azinger and his wife Toni opened the Azinger Family Compassion Center, serving vulnerable and struggling families in Manatee County, Florida.
The Southern Company, which sponsors the award, will donate $300,000 to the recipient’s charity and $200,000 to the Stewart Family Foundation program.
