Collin Morikawa
PGA Championship winner, professional golfer, Olympic competitor
Collin Morikawa (born February 23, 1997) is an American professional golfer who achieved major success early in his career. Born in Los Angeles to Japanese immigrant parents, Morikawa developed his golf skills at a young age and had an exceptional college career at UC Berkeley. He turned professional in 2019 and quickly made an impact on the PGA Tour, winning his first PGA Tour event in 2019 just months after turning professional. His breakthrough major championship victory came at the 2021 PGA Championship at Kiawah Island, where at age 24, he became one of the youngest players to win a major championship. This victory cemented his status as one of golf's rising stars and one of the most promising young players in the sport. Morikawa is known for his composed demeanor, exceptional ball-striking, and consistency. He has represented Team USA in international competitions, including the Olympics, demonstrating his technical excellence across different formats. His success represents the emergence of a new generation of golfers and highlights the accessibility of professional golf to diverse populations. Morikawa continues to compete at the highest levels of professional golf and remains a contender in major championships.
Athlete
American
1997
Thinking about the name
Collin
English origin
“A modern English spelling of Colin, derived from the Latin Nicolaus meaning 'victory of the people.' Collin emerged as a distinct variant in late 20th-century America, offering a sharper, more contemporary edge than traditional Colin. It appeals to parents seeking a familiar name with a distinctive twist.”