Bud Cauley Wins Inspiring Ben Hogan Award for Resilience

PGA TOUR pro honored for overcoming serious injuries to return to top competition

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Bud Cauley, a PGA TOUR professional, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Ben Hogan Award by the Golf Writers Association of America (GWAA). The award recognizes individuals who remain actively involved in golf despite enduring significant physical challenges. Cauley's journey back to professional golf has been remarkable, following severe injuries sustained in a 2018 car accident that left him with multiple broken bones and a collapsed lung. After missing over three years of competition, Cauley fought his way back onto the PGA TOUR leaderboard, securing his card again and finishing 47th on the points list in 2025 - his best performance in over a decade.

Why it matters

Cauley's resilience and determination to overcome adversity and return to top-level competition has earned him respect and admiration within the golf community. His story serves as an inspiring example for athletes facing similar challenges, demonstrating the power of perseverance in the face of life-changing setbacks.

The details

Since the 2018 accident, Cauley has endured a difficult recovery process, which tested both his physical and mental strength. However, his persistence and dedication have not only led to his return to the PGA TOUR but also secured him the prestigious Ben Hogan Award. Cauley secured the award with 45.9% of the votes cast, edging out fellow nominees Madelene Sagström and Kim Kaufman from the LPGA Tour.

  • Cauley's accident occurred in 2018, leaving him with multiple serious injuries.
  • Cauley returned to the PGA TOUR in 2025, securing his card and finishing 47th on the points list - his best performance in over 10 years.
  • The Ben Hogan Award presentation is scheduled for April 8, 2026, at the 52nd ISPS Handa GWAA Awards Dinner in Augusta, Georgia, coinciding with the Masters Tournament.

The players

Bud Cauley

A PGA TOUR professional who has overcome serious injuries sustained in a 2018 car accident to return to top-level competition.

Golf Writers Association of America (GWAA)

The organization that presents the annual Ben Hogan Award, recognizing individuals who remain actively involved in golf despite enduring significant physical challenges.

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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 (Golf Channel)

What’s next

The upcoming Masters Tournament and future PGA TOUR events will provide Cauley opportunities to reaffirm his competitiveness, while his resilience story is expected to inspire new generations both on and off the course.

The takeaway

Cauley's journey back to professional golf after a devastating injury serves as a powerful example of the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity. His story will continue to inspire athletes and fans alike, demonstrating the transformative power of resilience and determination in the face of life-changing challenges.