Tony Finau is one of the most prominent names in professional golf, and his success has made him a trailblazer for Asian-American athletes in a sport where diversity is still emerging. With Tongan and Samoan roots, Finau’s heritage highlights the often-overlooked contributions of Pacific Islanders within the Asian-American community.
Born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah, Finau came from humble beginnings. His father, Kelepi, who had no prior golf experience, taught Tony and his brother using secondhand equipment. Finau’s early exposure to golf was anything but traditional, but it ignited a passion that would eventually lead him to the PGA Tour.
Finau’s rise to prominence hasn’t been without its challenges. As a Pacific Islander, he represents a minority group in golf, a sport that has long been dominated by white athletes. However, his perseverance and incredible talent have made him a role model for aspiring athletes from underrepresented backgrounds. He has repeatedly spoken about how important it is for him to represent his heritage on a global stage, inspiring young golfers who may not see themselves reflected in mainstream sports.
In 2016, Finau won his first PGA Tour event at the Puerto Rico Open, and since then, he has solidified his place as one of the game’s elite players. His powerful drives and calm demeanor under pressure have made him a fan favorite. Off the course, Finau is known for his humility and dedication to giving back to his community, particularly through his Tony Finau Foundation, which supports underserved youth.
Most recently, Finau won the Mexico Open. He was three strokes ahead of this year’s Master’s Champion Jon Rahm.
Tony Finau’s achievements have broken barriers for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in golf, paving the way for future generations of diverse athletes to dream big and succeed in sports that may seem out of reach.