John Daly Shocks Golf World With Monster 400-Yard Drive and Signature Style—Watch the Viral Moment

Golf fans have another reason to circle their calendars for mid-September: two-time major champion and crowd favorite John Daly has officially committed to tee it up at the 2025 Sanford International in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, on the PGA Tour Champions schedule. The announcement comes just days after Daly’s son, John Daly II, captured the Southern Amateur Championship on their home turf in Arkansas, prompting an emotional “proud dad” post from the 59-year-old legend. The back-to-back headlines have surged Daly back into the golf spotlight—right where he thrives. Why Daly’s return matters • Fan magnet: Few players move merchandise, autographs, and gallery numbers on the Champions Tour like Daly. His last appearance in Sioux Falls drew near-capacity crowds. • Star-studded field: Tournament officials already expect Ernie Els, Steve Stricker, and Retief Goosen. Daly’s commitment adds another major winner to the mix, boosting ticket demand and broadcast interest. • Midwestern market: The Sanford International has quickly become a staple fall stop; Daly’s presence gives regional sponsors premium exposure. Father-son momentum John Daly II’s victory at the Southern Amateur signals a potential new chapter in the Daly golf story. The University of Arkansas standout posted 15-under for the week, edging a deep amateur field and earning exemptions into several elite amateur events. Proud father John followed the win with a social-media volley of exclamation-point-laden congratulations, telling reporters he hopes to pair with his son in select pro-am events later this year. Classic Daly soundbite Never one to play it safe, Daly reminded everyone he can still entertain off the course. In a recent interview promoting his vodka-lemonade canned cocktail line, the big hitter joked he can “put down 55 or 60” of the drinks in one day—though he quickly added he’s “pacing himself better these days”. The quip sparked viral buzz and underscores why Daly remains one of golf’s most quotable personalities. What to expect in Sioux Falls • Dates: Sept. 12-14, 2025, at Minnehaha Country Club. • Format: 54-hole, no-cut event with a $2 million purse. • TV/Streaming: Golf Channel coverage in prime afternoon slots; streaming via Peacock for U.S. viewers. • Tickets: Early-bird single-day passes start at $25; kids 15 and under free with paid adult. Performance preview Daly’s 2025 Champions Tour season has been limited—he skipped May’s PGA Championship citing schedule conflicts—but the long hitter has flashed form, ranking inside the top 25 in driving distance and birdie average in five starts. Course setup at Minnehaha traditionally rewards power off the tee and deft wedge play, both hallmarks of Daly’s game when the putter cooperates. Bottom line Between celebrating his son’s breakthrough and gearing up for Sioux Falls, John Daly is back in the headlines—and the galleries can’t wait. Expect loud pants, booming drives, and a spike in ticket sales as the “Wild Thing” brings his unique brand of golf theater to the 2025 Sanford International.