Collin Morikawa
Get an in-depth look at Collin Morikawa, one of golf's most exciting young stars. From his early days as a standout amateur to his major championship victories on the PGA Tour, this profile covers his journey, his stats, his relationships, and what makes his swing one of the best in the game. Collin Morikawa isn't just another name on the PGA Tour; he's a golfing phenomenon who has taken the sport by storm. With a swing that's the envy of his peers and a mindset that's mature beyond his years, Morikawa has already achieved what many golfers only dream of. This comprehensive profile will take you through every aspect of his life and career. We'll explore his journey from a young prodigy in California to a multiple major champion.
Biography
| Father Name | Blaine Morikawa |
|---|---|
| Mother Name | Debbie Morikawa |
| Date of Birth | February 6, 1997 |
| Age | 28 years |
| Place of Birth | Los Angeles, California |
| Nationality | American |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Katherine Zhu |
| Height | 5 ft 9 in (175 cm) |
| Weight | 73 kg |
| Net Worth | $8 million |
Personal Profile About Collin Morikawa
Early Life and Background
Collin Morikawa was born on February 6, 1997, in Los Angeles, California, to Blaine and Debbie Morikawa. From a very young age, it was clear that Collin had a special talent for golf. Growing up in La Cañada Flintridge, he spent countless hours honing his skills.
Unlike many of his peers, Morikawa didn’t come from a long line of professional golfers. His parents were instrumental in supporting his passion, driving him to tournaments and providing the encouragement he needed to succeed. He began working with his swing coach, Rick Sessinghaus, at the age of eight, a partnership that continues to this day.
A Stellar Amateur and College Career
Morikawa’s talent was evident throughout his junior and amateur career. He attended the University of California, Berkeley, where he was a standout player for the Golden Bears golf team.
- Four-time All-American: He was a decorated player, earning All-American honors in each of his four years at Cal.
- PAC-12 Player of the Year: In 2019, he was named the PAC-12 Conference Player of the Year.
- World Number One Amateur: His consistent high-level performance led him to the top of the World Amateur Golf Ranking for three weeks in 2018.
His time at Berkeley was crucial in his development. He not only refined his game but also earned a degree in Business Administration from the prestigious Haas School of Business, proving his dedication both on and off the course.
Bursting onto the PGA Tour Scene
Collin Morikawa turned professional in 2019, and his impact was immediate. He made a remarkable 22 consecutive cuts to start his professional career, a feat second only to Tiger Woods’ legendary streak of 25.
His first PGA Tour victory came at the 2019 Barracuda Championship. This win was a clear sign that he belonged among the world’s elite.
Major Championship Glory
It didn’t take long for Morikawa to make his mark on golf’s biggest stages.
- 2020 PGA Championship: In his first-ever PGA Championship appearance, Morikawa captured the Wanamaker Trophy at TPC Harding Park. His spectacular drive on the 16th hole in the final round, which set up an eagle, is already considered one of the greatest shots in modern major history.
- 2021 Open Championship: Morikawa won his second major at Royal St George’s, becoming the first player in history to win two different majors in his debut appearance. This victory showcased his incredible adaptability and skill on a completely different style of golf course.
These victories cemented his status as one of the best players in the world.
Career Stats and Records
Collin Morikawa’s statistics highlight his world-class ability, particularly with his irons.
- PGA Tour Wins: He has secured multiple victories on the PGA Tour, including two major championships.
- DP World Tour Championship: In 2021, he became the first American to win the Race to Dubai, the season-long points competition on the European Tour.
- Iron Play: He is consistently ranked as one of the best iron players in the world, regularly leading the PGA Tour in Strokes Gained: Approach.
Analyzing Collin Morikawa’s Playing Style
What makes Collin Morikawa so good? His game is built on a foundation of precision and control.
His swing is a model of efficiency and repeatability. He is known for his signature “fade,” a left-to-right ball flight (for a right-handed player) that allows him to control his distances with incredible accuracy. This makes him particularly deadly with his approach shots into the greens.
While not the longest hitter on tour, his accuracy from the tee box puts him in a great position to attack pins. His calm and collected demeanor on the course is also a major asset, allowing him to perform under the immense pressure of professional golf.
Personal Life
Off the course, Collin Morikawa leads a relatively private life. He has been in a long-term relationship with his girlfriend, Katherine Zhu, who he met during their college golf days. Zhu was a standout player for the Pepperdine University women’s golf team.
They got married in November 2022. Katherine is often seen supporting him at tournaments, and they share a love for the game of golf. Morikawa is also an avid foodie and enjoys trying new restaurants while traveling for tournaments.
Earnings and Net Worth
As one of the top players in the world, Collin Morikawa has earned a significant amount of money through tournament winnings and endorsements.
- On-Course Earnings: He has earned tens of millions of dollars in official prize money on the PGA Tour.
- Endorsements: Morikawa has lucrative sponsorship deals with major brands, including TaylorMade, Adidas, Omega, and Zurich Insurance.
While his exact net worth is private, it is estimated to be well into the tens of millions, a figure that is sure to grow as his successful career continues.
Frequently Asked Questions about Collin Morikawa
What is Collin Morikawa’s biggest strength?
Collin Morikawa’s biggest strength is undoubtedly his iron play. He is widely regarded as one of the best approach players in the world, which allows him to create numerous birdie opportunities.
How many major championships has Collin Morikawa won?
As of late 2025, Collin Morikawa has won two major championships: the 2020 PGA Championship and the 2021 Open Championship.
Who is Collin Morikawa’s wife?
Collin Morikawa is married to Katherine Zhu. They met in college where they both played high-level collegiate golf.
What clubs does Collin Morikawa use?
Collin Morikawa has a long-standing equipment deal with TaylorMade. He uses a full bag of TaylorMade clubs, including their driver, fairway woods, irons, and wedges.
