Bud Cauley wins GWAA Ben Hogan Award

Cauley, Mark Rolfing and Stacy Lewis honored by Golf Writers Association of America

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Bud Cauley, a 35-year-old PGA TOUR professional, has been voted by Golf Writers Association of America members to receive the Hogan Award, which goes to an individual who has continued to be active in golf despite a physical handicap or serious illness. Cauley missed more than three years of competition due to complications from a 2018 car crash but regained his PGA TOUR card in 2025. Mark Rolfing, a longtime NBC Sports and Golf Channel commentator, will receive the Richardson Award for his outstanding contribution to golf. Stacy Lewis, a 40-year-old LPGA player, will receive the Murray Award for her cooperation, quotability and accommodation to the media.

Why it matters

The GWAA awards recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the sport of golf, whether through their performance, media coverage, or overcoming adversity. Cauley's comeback story, Rolfing's long-standing impact on the game, and Lewis' positive relationship with the media are all important narratives that help showcase the diverse ways people can make an impact in golf.

The details

Cauley missed more than three years of competition because of complications from a 2018 car crash that left him with five broken ribs, a broken left leg and a collapsed lung. He regained his PGA TOUR card with a tie for sixth at the 2025 Players Championship and finished 47th on the season-ending points list to complete his best year on tour in more than a decade. Rolfing is known as golf's 'Mr. Hawaii' because of his deep affiliation with the two PGA TOUR stops in the 50th state and has been at the forefront of the ongoing recovery efforts in Maui following the devastating wildfires in 2023. Lewis, who rose to No. 1 in the world and won two major championships among 13 LPGA titles, became one of the best interviews on the LPGA and never shies away from saying what needs to be said on the record.

  • Cauley missed more than three years of competition because of complications from a 2018 car crash.
  • Cauley regained his PGA TOUR card with a tie for sixth at the 2025 Players Championship.
  • Cauley finished 47th on the season-ending points list in 2025 to complete his best year on tour in more than a decade.
  • The GWAA awards ceremony will take place on April 8, 2026, on the eve of the Masters in Augusta, Ga.

The players

Bud Cauley

A 35-year-old PGA TOUR professional who overcame a serious car accident to regain his PGA TOUR card and complete his best year on tour in more than a decade.

Mark Rolfing

A longtime NBC Sports and Golf Channel commentator known as golf's 'Mr. Hawaii' because of his deep affiliation with the two PGA TOUR stops in the 50th state.

Stacy Lewis

A 40-year-old LPGA player who rose to No. 1 in the world, won two major championships among 13 LPGA titles, and became one of the best interviews on the LPGA.

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What they’re saying

“To be recognized by the GWAA for overcoming the challenges I faced recovering from my injuries means a great deal to me. I'm very lucky to have the help and support from my family and friends. I wouldn't be in the position to accept the Ben Hogan Award without them. Thank you to the GWAA. I'm very proud to add my name to the list of incredible past recipients.”

— Bud Cauley (GWAA president Rex Hoggard, Golf Channel)

“I am overwhelmed at the honor I have been given to receive this year's GWAA William D. Richardson Award. As I reflect on my career, I am constantly reminded of just how many people were so generous with their time and helped me along the way.”

— Mark Rolfing (GWAA president Rex Hoggard)

“It's an honor to be named the recipient of the Jim Murray Award. I've always believed that connecting with the media is an important part of being a professional golfer – not just to represent yourself, but to help tell the story of the game. I'm especially proud to help shine a light on women's golf and the incredible talent on the LPGA Tour. To be recognized for this award is incredibly meaningful to me.”

— Stacy Lewis (Beth Ann Nichols, Golfweek)

What’s next

The GWAA awards ceremony will take place on April 8, 2026, on the eve of the Masters in Augusta, Ga., where Cauley, Rolfing, and Lewis will be honored.

The takeaway

The GWAA awards highlight the diverse ways individuals can make significant contributions to the sport of golf, whether through overcoming adversity, long-standing media impact, or positive relationships with the press. These stories showcase the resilience, dedication, and professionalism that are hallmarks of the golf community.