Steph Curry Is Hoping to Play Another Sport Professionally After NBA Retirement
Steph Curry. Stephen Curry, the face of modern basketball and arguably the greatest shooter in NBA history, has always been more than just a basketball player. Known for revolutionizing the game with his long-range shooting and charismatic leadership, Curry has captured the hearts of millions of fans across the globe. As he approaches the twilight of his storied NBA career, Curry has hinted that his competitive fire may soon be channeled into another sport: professional golf.
Yes, that’s right. The four-time NBA champion and two-time league MVP is eyeing a second act in professional sports — this time, on the golf course.
The Love for Golf: Not Just a Hobby
Steph Curry’s love for golf isn’t some fleeting interest or a retirement pastime. He’s been deeply passionate about the sport since his childhood. Growing up, Curry often played golf with his father, former NBA sharpshooter Dell Curry. Over the years, golf has become a central part of his life — both recreationally and philanthropically.
He’s participated in various celebrity golf tournaments, including the American Century Championship, where he’s regularly one of the top performers. His swing is polished, his mental focus sharp, and most importantly, his commitment to improving at the game is unwavering.
In an interview, Curry once remarked, “I just love golf. It challenges you in a completely different way from basketball. It’s more mental and it’s humbling.” His remarks are echoed by his consistent participation in high-profile amateur tournaments and his serious approach to training.
A Peek Into Curry’s Golfing Credentials
While many athletes play golf as a casual hobby, Curry has taken it a step further by testing his skills against real competition. In 2017 and 2018, he played in two Korn Ferry Tour events — a stepping stone to the PGA Tour — and impressed the golf world by holding his own against professional players. Though he didn’t make the cut, his performance was far from embarrassing.
Let’s take a closer look at his golfing milestones:
| Tournament | Year | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Ellie Mae Classic (Korn Ferry Tour) | 2017 | Shot 74-74, missed cut |
| Ellie Mae Classic | 2018 | Shot 71-86, missed cut |
| American Century Championship | Multiple | Top-10 finishes, fan favorite |
| Golf Handicap | Ongoing | Around +1 to +2 (elite amateur) |
These numbers reflect more than casual play — they show Curry’s genuine potential to take the game further.
Golf and Business: More Than Just a Swing
Curry’s relationship with golf extends beyond swinging clubs. He’s become a significant force in making the game more inclusive. In 2019, he funded Howard University’s golf program, which had been dormant for decades, pledging to support the team financially for at least six years. His goal? To diversify the traditionally exclusive sport and open doors for underrepresented youth.
This move not only highlighted Curry’s social consciousness but also his belief that golf could be a platform for change — a belief that often fuels his business decisions. His media company, Unanimous Media, has also announced various golf-themed content projects, further tying his brand to the sport.
Can Steph Curry Really Turn Pro in Golf?
While the idea of a 30-something NBA legend shifting to professional golf may seem far-fetched, history shows it’s not impossible. Athletes such as Tony Romo and John Smoltz have competed at high levels in golf post-retirement. Curry arguably has a more polished skill set than both at a similar age.
Turning pro in golf is no small feat. The journey typically involves:
- Consistent competitive play
- Earning a tour card via qualifying schools or tournaments
- Maintaining a low handicap
- Enduring the mental and physical toll of tour life
Curry is aware of these challenges but sees them as part of the thrill. In his words, “It’s something I would love to pursue seriously once I hang up my basketball shoes. I’m not saying I’ll be on the PGA Tour right away, but you never know until you try.”
What Experts Are Saying
Many golf analysts believe Curry has what it takes — not necessarily to win majors, but to compete respectably in pro-level events. Here are a few takes:
- Brandel Chamblee, Golf Channel Analyst: “Steph Curry has one of the better swings I’ve seen from a non-professional athlete. With time and focus, he could definitely make some noise on the pro circuit.”
- Michelle Wie, LPGA Champion: “He’s got great fundamentals and mental toughness — the hardest part of golf. I wouldn’t bet against him.”
FAQ Table: Steph Curry’s Potential Golf Career
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Will Steph Curry retire from the NBA soon? | He hasn’t announced a retirement date, but at 37, he’s nearing the typical retirement age for elite NBA players. |
| Is Curry good enough to play professional golf? | He has a low handicap and has competed in Korn Ferry Tour events. Though not elite, his potential is promising. |
| What’s his biggest golf achievement so far? | Competing respectably in Korn Ferry Tour events and top finishes in celebrity tournaments. |
| Has he played against professionals? | Yes, he’s faced Korn Ferry professionals in sanctioned events. |
| Does Curry train regularly for golf? | Yes, he practices frequently and treats golf seriously, especially during the NBA offseason. |
| What does Curry say about turning pro in golf? | He’s expressed genuine interest and sees it as a post-NBA goal. |
| Will Curry’s fame help him get sponsor invites? | Likely yes, but he’ll still need to perform to justify continued inclusion. |
| What about golf business ventures? | Curry supports youth golf, created golf content through Unanimous Media, and helps fund HBCU golf programs. |
The Cultural Impact: Bridging Two Worlds
If Curry does go pro in golf, his move would bridge the cultural gap between basketball and golf, bringing younger and more diverse audiences to the latter. The PGA Tour could greatly benefit from Curry’s charisma, fanbase, and media power. With Tiger Woods entering the twilight of his career, a star like Curry could inject fresh energy into the sport.
Moreover, Curry’s entry into golf could serve as a blueprint for athlete crossovers, encouraging other stars to explore multi-sport ambitions. It would also affirm the belief that sports excellence isn’t confined to one discipline.
Conclusion
Steph Curry has nothing left to prove on the basketball court. He’s won championships, shattered records, and changed the game. But his competitive spirit doesn’t rest — it evolves. Golf, with its quiet intensity and relentless challenge, offers Curry a new frontier to conquer.
While it remains to be seen whether he will succeed professionally on the course, his pursuit alone is inspiring. It reflects a mindset of growth, risk-taking, and lifelong learning — qualities that define greatness in any field.
So, whether you’re a golf purist, a basketball fanatic, or simply a fan of incredible ambition, keep an eye on Steph Curry’s journey. His next chapter might be quieter than the roar of an NBA arena, but it could echo just as loudly in the history of sports.