Tom Ball


Thomas John Ball was an English professional golfer. Ball placed second in the 1908 Open Championship and tied for second place in the 1909 Open Championship. He won the Belgian Open twice, in 1913 and again in 1914. He won the 1909 News of the World Match Play tournament.

Golf career

1908 Open Championship

The 1908 Open Championship was held 18–19 June at Prestwick Golf Club in Prestwick, South Ayrshire, Scotland. Scottish professional James Braid won the Championship for the fourth time, eight strokes ahead of runner-up Ball. Ball's round-by-round scores were 76-73-76-74=299. The primary difference between Ball's score and Braid's was the first round scoring when Braid's superb 70 put him in excellent position to win—which he eventually did. Ball took home £25 for his fine performance.

1909 Open Championship

The 1909 Open Championship was held 10–11 June at Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club in Deal, Kent, England. English star J.H. Taylor won the Championship for the fourth time, six strokes ahead of runners-up Ball and James Braid. Ball carded rounds of 74-75-76-76=301—winning £20 in the process—and finished six shots behind the winning score of 295 posted by J.H. Taylor.

Family

Ball's father, William, was a greenkeeper from Hoylake. His brothers Sydney, William Henry and Frank were also professional golfers, as was Harry's son Errie.

Death and legacy

Ball died on 18 February 1919 in Wimbledon, Surrey, England. He is best remembered for having three top-10 finishes in the Open Championship, including a second-place finish in 1908.

Tournament wins (7)

Note: This list may be incomplete.
Note: Ball only played in The Open Championship.
WD = withdrew
CUT = missed the half-way cut
"T" indicates a tie for a place

Team appearances