Danny Willett is one of England’s most accomplished modern golfers, best known for his unforgettable victory at the 2016 Masters Tournament. With a career that spans elite amateur success, Ryder Cup appearances, DP World Tour wins, and resilience through injuries and form slumps, Willett’s journey reflects determination, class, and elite competitive grit.
Born on 3 October 1987, Willett rose from humble beginnings in Yorkshire to become a major champion at Augusta National—cementing his place in European golf history.
Early Life and Background
Daniel John Willett was born in Sheffield, Yorkshire, the third of four sons. His father, Steve Willett, is a Church of England vicar, while his mother, Elisabet Willett, worked as a teacher. Danny’s introduction to golf came at a young age through casual family trips, often playing on modest courses—an upbringing that shaped his grounded personality.
As a junior golfer, Willett was a member of Birley Wood Golf Club and later Rotherham Golf Club, where his talent quickly became evident.
Amateur Career and World No.1 Ranking
Danny Willett enjoyed an exceptional amateur career. In 2007, he won the English Amateur Championship, one of the most prestigious amateur titles in the UK, and represented Great Britain & Ireland in the Walker Cup.
In March 2008, Willett reached the pinnacle of amateur golf by becoming the World No.1 amateur. This rare and remarkable achievement paved the way for a smooth transition into the professional ranks.
He also earned a golf scholarship to Jacksonville State University (JSU) in Alabama, where he was named Ohio Valley Conference Freshman of the Year and became a consistent medalist and All-Conference performer.
Professional Career Overview
Early Professional Years (2008–2015)
Danny Willett turned professional in May 2008 and earned his European Tour card for the 2009 season. His breakthrough came in 2012 with his first European Tour victory at the BMW International Open, followed by several strong seasons filled with top-10 finishes.
By 2015, Willett had firmly established himself as one of Europe’s elite players, earning a special temporary membership on the PGA Tour and finishing tied sixth at The Open Championship at St Andrews.
Masters Glory – Danny Willett at Augusta (2016)
The defining moment of Danny Willett’s career came in April 2016, when he won the Masters Tournament at Augusta National.
Shooting a bogey-free final round of 67, Willett capitalized on a dramatic back-nine collapse by Jordan Spieth to finish at −5, becoming:
The second Englishman to win the Masters
The first European in 17 years to win at Augusta
The first British Masters champion since Nick Faldo (1996)
The victory earned him the iconic Green Jacket, PGA Tour membership, and a career-high World Ranking of No. 9.
Danny Willett Salary and Net Worth
Danny Willett’s salary and net worth are driven by tournament prize money, endorsements, and bonuses accumulated over more than a decade on top tours.
Estimated Net Worth (2025): $15 million – $20 million
Career Prize Money: Over $30 million worldwide
Biggest Payday: $1.33 million (2018 DP World Tour Championship, Dubai)
His Master’s win alone dramatically boosted his career earnings and long-term endorsement value.
Danny Willett Age and Height
Age: 37 years old (as of 2025)
Date of Birth: 3 October 1987
Height: 5 ft 11 in (180 cm)
Willett’s compact, repeatable swing has long been praised for its efficiency and reliability under pressure.
Danny Willett Wife and Family Life
Danny Willett is married to Nicole Harris, whom he wed in 2013. The couple live in Rotherham, Yorkshire, and have two children.
Remarkably, Willett’s first child was born just days before his Masters victory in 2016—a moment he has often described as life-changing both personally and professionally.
Danny Willett Latest Career News
In recent seasons, Danny Willett has split time between the DP World Tour and the PGA Tour, continuing to compete at the highest level.
Notable recent highlights include:
Victory at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship (2021)
Regaining PGA Tour status following field adjustments in 2022
Strong performances in Rolex Series events
Despite occasional setbacks, Willett remains an active and respected presence in professional golf, valued for his experience and big-event pedigree.
Danny Willett Career Achievements
Major Championships
European / DP World Tour Wins
BMW International Open (2012)
Nedbank Golf Challenge (2014)
Omega European Masters (2015)
Dubai Desert Classic (2016)
DP World Tour Championship, Dubai (2018)
BMW PGA Championship (2019)
Alfred Dunhill Links Championship (2021)
Career Honors
World No.1 Amateur (2008)
Sir Henry Cotton, a rookie contender
Ryder Cup Team Member (2016)
Career-high World Ranking: No. 9
His Golf Career, net worth, age, height, salary, wife, and family
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Daniel John Willett |
| Nickname | Danny |
| Date of Birth | 3 October 1987 |
| Age | 37 years (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Sheffield, Yorkshire, England |
| Nationality | British / English |
| Height | 5 ft 11 in (180 cm) |
| Weight | Approximately 165 lbs (75 kg) |
| Religion | Christianity |
| College / University | Jacksonville State University (USA) |
| Turned Professional | May 2008 |
| Professional Tour(s) | DP World Tour, PGA Tour |
| Professional Wins | 8+ worldwide wins (including 1 Major) |
| Major Championships | Masters Tournament (2016) |
| Highest World Ranking | No. 9 (Official World Golf Ranking) |
| Ryder Cup Appearances | 2016 (Europe) |
| Playing Hand | Right-handed |
| Wife | Nicole Harris (married in 2013) |
| Children | Two |
| Father’s Name | Steve Willett (Church of England vicar) |
| Mother’s Name | Elisabet Willett (Teacher) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $15–20 million |
| Career Status | Active Professional Golfer |
| Home Residence | Rotherham, Yorkshire, England |
| Golf Club Affiliation | Lindrick Golf Club |
| Wikipedia Page | Danny Willett – Wikipedia |
| Social Media | Limited / Low public activity |
Playing Style and Strengths
Danny Willett is known for:
Elite iron play
Calm temperament in pressure situations
Strong putting on fast greens
Strategic course management
His skill set is particularly effective on major championship setups and classic European layouts.
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FAQs About Danny Willett
Who is Danny Willett?
Danny Willett is an English professional golfer and the winner of the 2016 Masters Tournament.
How old is Danny Willett?
Danny Willett is 37 years old, born on 3 October 1987.
What is Danny Willett’s net worth?
Danny Willett’s estimated net worth is between $15 million and $20 million.
Is Danny Willett married?
Yes, Danny Willett is married to Nicole Harris and has two children.
What is Danny Willett’s biggest career achievement?
Winning the 2016 Masters Tournament at Augusta National is the highlight of his career.
Final Thoughts
Danny Willett’s career is a story of perseverance, elite talent, and unforgettable moments. From world-class amateur to Masters champion, he remains one of England’s most respected golfers and a proven performer on golf’s biggest stages.
