### Ed Fiori: A Golf Legend Remembered Ed Fiori, a notable figure in the golf world, has passed away at the age of 72 after a courageous battle with cancer. Fiori is best remembered for his remarkable victory over a young Tiger Woods at the 1996 Quad City Classic, now known as the John Deere Classic. His death has left a significant impact on the golfing community, with many expressing their condolences and sharing memories of his contributions to the sport. Fiori's legacy as a four-time PGA Tour winner and his iconic match against Woods will be cherished by fans and players alike [https://www.newsweek.com/sports/golf/pga-tour-pro-ed-fiori-dies-72-caught-tiger-woods-2095235][https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/golf/ed-fiori-dies-pga-tour-35514939]. ### Overview of Ed Fiori's Life and Career 1. **Early Life and Career** - Born in Lynnwood, California, Fiori began his professional golf career in the late 1970s. - He achieved his first PGA Tour victory at the Southern Open in 1979, followed by wins at the Western Open and the Bob Hope Desert Classic in the early 1980s [https://www.yardbarker.com/golf/articles/4_time_pga_tour_champ_ed_fiori_dies_at_72/s1_17051_42421125]. 2. **The Iconic 1996 Victory** - Fiori gained fame for defeating Tiger Woods, who was just 20 years old at the time, during the final round of the Quad City Classic in 1996. - Fiori entered the final round one shot behind Woods and managed to secure the win, preventing Woods from achieving his first PGA Tour victory [https://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/article/ed-fiori-known-for-taking-down-tiger-woods-dies-20672541.php][https://www.abc27.com/sports/sports-illustrated/8b8acbe4/ed-fiori-who-once-caught-tiger-woods-at-the-john-deere-classic-dies-at-72]. 3. **Later Years and Legacy** - Fiori continued to play on the PGA Tour for several years, earning a total of four victories. - His passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow golfers, highlighting his impact on the sport and the memories he created [https://www.essentiallysports.com/golf-news-golf-world-in-mourning-as-former-tiger-woods-rival-passes-away-after-cancer-battle-rip-ed-fiori]. ### Supporting Evidence of Ed Fiori's Impact - **Career Achievements** - Four-time PGA Tour winner: - 1979 Southern Open - 1981 Western Open - 1982 Bob Hope Desert Classic - 1996 Quad City Classic (John Deere Classic) [https://www.mensjournal.com/sports/famed-golfer-who-bested-tiger-woods-dead-at-72]. - **Memorable Match Against Tiger Woods** - Fiori's victory over Woods marked a significant moment in golf history, as he was the first player to rally from a 54-hole deficit to beat Woods on the PGA Tour [https://www.usnews.com/news/sports/articles/2025-07-06/ed-fiori-known-for-taking-down-tiger-woods-dies-of-cancer]. ### Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy **Ed Fiori's legacy in the world of golf is profound.** His remarkable achievements and the unforgettable match against Tiger Woods have solidified his place in golfing history. 1. **Fiori's Early Success**: He won four PGA Tour titles, showcasing his talent and determination. 2. **Historic Victory**: His win over Woods in 1996 remains a highlight of his career and a pivotal moment in golf. 3. **Community Mourning**: The golf world is mourning his loss, reflecting on his contributions and the memories he created. Fiori's impact on the sport will be remembered for years to come, as fans and players alike celebrate his life and achievements [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/sports-games/3495107-ed-fiori-the-tiger-killer-of-the-golf-world-passes-at-72].