Golf legend Steve Wheatcroft and former PGA Tour player retired from golf in 2019. At the age of 46, he recently shared his story on social media, sparking strong reactions from many. Steve struggled with alcoholism, and his transition to a career as a financial advisor two years ago also brought its own problems. Although he expected things to go smoothly at first, he soon faced a major setback. One customer in particular was very disappointed.
“I started working as a financial advisor and threw myself into it like I was playing golf. Heads down, time to grind.
The first year was very good, winning awards and earning some money. The second year descended, and the third year descended. I had a big and very important commission-paying case that had to go through in 2022. My family needed that money. It started as a normal day. At 7:15 in the morning, I got the text that the client wanted to close for a year or two.» He was quoted as saying by Golf Worley.
Steve felt alcohol was his only escape from the intense stress and trauma he was experiencing. In those moments, he found solace in vodka, hoping to distance himself from the world and its problems. Although alcohol seemed to provide some relief at first, allowing him to disconnect from the daily struggle, it gradually became a bigger issue for him.
“I walk over and pour OJ spray vodka, sit down and turn on Sports Center. 7:15 am!! * World, I should have relaxed. And it relaxed me. Almost as much as the next one did.
That drink is where my class died. That’s the drink I gave up on life. That drink introduced me to a new best friend.
The 46-year-old revealed that he had been living this lifestyle for two years, hiding it from others.
He explained that the sudden loss of his regular friends, who were mainly interested in his golf life rather than maintaining a real relationship, hurt him. This feeling of abandonment contributed to his decision to turn to alcohol.
Wheatcroft explained how frequent hospital visits, mainly for liver problems, made him realize he couldn’t live in his current condition. With the support of his wife and family, he admitted to a treatment center for about 40 days; He said this saved his life. He felt he would not survive much without this treatment. It took him three days of recovery to come to terms with the fact that he would never drink again.
Being under the influence of alcohol every day for two years and realizing that he can no longer use it can be a huge shock to him. The famous golfer, on the other hand, knows that this lifestyle will lead him nowhere and only exacerbate existing problems. Although he found solace in alcohol, his growing health problems served as a clear sign that he needed to stop.
Steve Wheatcroft and his message
Steve emphasizes that golfers are trained from the start to be mentally strong. They are told not to show weakness, to control their emotions and to leave their personal problems out of the process. He criticized this approach as adding to stress and pressure. According to him, this method often leads to the accumulation of problems, which eventually leads to failure as the only way to release the tension. He also said he was depressed.
However, attitudes have changed over the years. More and more golfers are openly discussing their mental health issues and are willing to share their stories. Sharing experiences is important for two main reasons. First, it helps lift the burden and allows people to talk honestly about their struggles without fear.
Secondly, sharing your story may inspire others to do the same and seek help if they are facing similar problems. Wheatcroft serves as an example of a golfer who has the courage to speak out about his own issues to make a positive impact and encourage others to overcome their challenges.
Ultimately, the legendary golfer sent a message to anyone with similar issues, encouraging them to talk to therapists, friends, other golfers or coaches. He believes that it is important to have an open discussion about one’s problems.
Steve Wheatcroft wants to inspire others to seek help for themselves before it’s too late. He also mentioned that those who want to share their own stories can reach out to him for support and advice.
