Hall of Fame golfer Juan 'Chi Chi' Rodriguez, known for his vibrant personality and fairway antics, has died at the age of 88, announced Puerto Rican Senator Carmelo Javier Ríos.

Rodriguez, a trailblazer in the world of golf, left an indelible mark with his distinctive flair and charismatic presence. Making his PGA Tour debut in 1960, he won eight times over his 21-year career and accrued 22 senior tour titles. Inducted into the PGA World Golf Hall of Fame in 1992, Rodriguez was celebrated not only for his skill but also for his contributions to charity, including founding a youth foundation. His passing marks the end of an era for a beloved figure who brought joy and excitement to the sport.

Rodriguez's death was confirmed by Carmelo Javier Ríos, a senator in Puerto Rico, though no cause of death has been provided. His departure leaves a significant void in the world of golf, where he was known not just for his outstanding career but also for his charismatic and entertaining style on the greens.

Born in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, Rodriguez was the second oldest of six children. He grew up in modest circumstances and learned to play golf in a unique manner by hitting tin cans with a guava tree stick. His early experiences as a caddie would lay the foundation for his future career in professional golf.

Rodriguez served in the U.S. Army from 1955 to 1957, after which he focused on his golf career. He made his PGA Tour debut in 1960 and won his first title at the Denver Open in 1963. Throughout his PGA Tour career, which spanned 21 years, Rodriguez accumulated eight titles, with his last victory at the Tallahassee Open in 1979.

A key highlight of Rodriguez's career was his participation in the victorious 1973 U.S. Ryder Cup team. His contributions to the sport continued to earn him accolades, culminating in his induction into the PGA World Golf Hall of Fame in 1992.

In addition to his eight PGA Tour victories, Rodriguez experienced considerable success in his senior years, winning 22 senior tour titles. His career earnings exceeded $7.6 million, reflecting his enduring skill and popularity in the sport.

Rodriguez was perhaps equally well-known for his colorful antics on the course. Known for twirling his club like a sword and performing celebratory dances, he brought a sense of fun and excitement to golf that captured the hearts of fans. His signature 'matador routine' was a crowd favorite, although it did sometimes irritate fellow players.

In October 1998, Rodriguez suffered a heart attack and was subsequently hospitalized for immediate surgery. Despite this significant health scare, he showed remarkable resilience by returning to compete in golf for a few more years. Eventually, he shifted his focus to charity and community activities, further cementing his legacy as a beloved figure beyond the fairways.

Rodriguez founded the Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation in Clearwater, Florida, in 1979. The foundation was created to support at-risk youth, reflecting his commitment to giving back to the community. His passion for charity and outreach earned him praise from many, including PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan, who lauded Rodriguez as a vibrant and colorful personality dedicated to making a difference.

In his later years, Rodriguez remained active within the golf community, living in Puerto Rico and engaging in various projects, including a local radio talk show and a golf community initiative. Despite his advancing age, he continued to attend golf events like the Puerto Rico Open in 2008, where he chose not to play to give younger players a chance to compete.

Rodriguez is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Iwalani, and her daughter from a previous marriage, Donnette. His family, friends, and countless fans around the world will remember him not only as a remarkable golfer but as a man who brought joy and inspiration to many through both his sport and charitable endeavors.