Discover the incredible story of PGA golfer Bud Cauley, his near-fatal car accident in 2018, and his inspiring return to professional golf.
Bud Cauley’s journey is one of perseverance and determination. A rising star in golf, Cauley faced a devastating setback in 2018 when he was involved in a severe car accident that could have ended his career. However, through resilience and dedication, he fought his way back to the sport he loved. This article delves into the details of the accident, his recovery process, and his triumphant return to professional golf.
Bud Cauley’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | William “Bud” Cauley |
| Date of Birth | March 16, 1990 |
| Birthplace | Daytona Beach, Florida, USA |
| Profession | Professional Golfer |
| Years Active | 2011–present |
| PGA Tour Wins | 1 (2014 Hotel Fitness Championship) |
| College | University of Alabama |
| Career Earnings | Over $10 million |
The Bud Cauley Car Accident: What Happened?
On June 1, 2018, Bud Cauley was involved in a horrific car crash in Dublin, Ohio, following the Memorial Tournament. Cauley had missed the cut and was traveling with three others—surgeon David Crawford, former NHL defenseman James Wisniewski, and a young pharmacist.
As the car sped down a residential street, Crawford lost control, hitting a culvert, crashing into trees, and flipping through the air before landing in a front yard. Tragically, the accident left the passengers severely injured.
Cauley suffered:
- Six broken ribs
- A collapsed lung
- A fractured lower leg
The driver, Crawford, was found to have a blood alcohol level of 0.155—nearly twice the legal limit in Ohio. Despite the horrific injuries, Cauley survived and soon set his sights on recovery.
The Aftermath: Bud Cauley’s Road to Recovery
Cauley faced a long rehabilitation process after the accident. Initially, he struggled with breathing and movement, and the injuries to his ribs posed a significant threat to his golfing career due to the twisting motion required in the sport.
His recovery timeline included:
- Surgery & Initial Rehab (2018-2019): Undergoing surgeries and regaining strength.
- Early Return (Late 2018): Attempting to play but dealing with severe pain.
- Setbacks (2020-2023): Facing additional complications, including inflammation and surgeries that sidelined him from professional golf.
- Comeback (2024-Present): Returning to the PGA Tour at the 2024 WM Phoenix Open, where he tied for 65th place.
Despite setbacks, Cauley pushed forward, determined to regain his form and compete at the highest level.
Bud Cauley’s Career Revival
Cauley’s resilience paid off in 2024 as he worked his way back into the PGA Tour. Some of his notable achievements include:
- 2024 WM Phoenix Open: Tied for 65th with a 2-under-par score.
- 2025 PLAYERS Championship: Finished tied for 5th, nearly securing his first PGA Tour win since 2014.
- Strong Performance in Phoenix: Finished 21st with a 10-under-par score.
Off the course, Cauley’s personal life has also flourished. He married Kristi in 2021, and the couple welcomed their first child, Cooper, in November 2022. His son became a major source of motivation in his journey back to golf.
FAQs
1. How did Bud Cauley’s car accident happen?
Cauley was a passenger in a car driven by surgeon David Crawford, who was intoxicated and lost control, causing a major crash.
2. What injuries did Bud Cauley suffer in the accident?
He sustained six broken ribs, a collapsed lung, and a fractured lower leg.
3. When did Bud Cauley return to professional golf?
Cauley made an initial return in late 2018 but was sidelined due to complications. He fully returned in 2024 at the WM Phoenix Open.
4. Has Bud Cauley won any major tournaments?
While he has yet to win a major, Cauley’s best finish in a major tournament was T32 at The British Open in 2013.
5. How much has Bud Cauley earned in his career?
As of 2025, Cauley has earned over $10 million in professional golf earnings.
Conclusion
Bud Cauley’s journey from a near-fatal car accident to a promising return to professional golf is a testament to his resilience and passion for the sport. His inspiring comeback serves as a reminder that setbacks can be overcome with determination and perseverance. As he continues to compete, fans eagerly await what’s next for this talented golfer
