Major champion and current golf commentator Paul Azinger was honored by the PGA Tour with one of its most special awards, the Payne Stewart Award. It was a particularly meaningful moment for Azinger, as Stewart was one of his closest friends until his death in 1999.

The Payne Stewart Award is given to recognize the honoree’s character, sportsmanship, and commitment to charitable giving. It has been presented annually since 2000, and past recipients include Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Arnold Palmer, Byron Nelson, Sir Nick Faldo, Bernhard Langer, and Justin Rose.

“To be named the recipient of this award, representing my dearest friend, is one of the proudest moments in my life,” said Azinger, according to the PGA Tour’s official website. “Payne displayed the ultimate character, sportsmanship and service to others throughout his career. He set the standard for how to represent the game of golf, so to be recognized for this award is truly humbling.”

In officially presenting the award, PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan highlighted Azinger’s extraordinary qualities.

“We are pleased to add Paul Azinger’s name to the long and illustrious list of those who have received the Payne Stewart Award presented by Southern Company,” Monahan said, according to the PGA Tour’s official website. “If there is one person who knows all the positive traits that exemplified Payne Stewart, it’s his close friend, Paul. His values align with the character and charitable pursuits that Payne displayed throughout his career, and it’s only fitting that Paul be honored with this year’s award.”

Azinger has done extraordinary charitable work throughout his career, primarily through the Paul and Toni Azinger Charitable Fund, which manages the Azinger Family Compassion Center. The center serves disadvantaged families in Manatee County, Florida.

Paul Azinger and Payne Stewart in Professional Golf

Azinger won 12 PGA Tour tournaments during his professional golf career, including the 1993 PGA Championship. In 1995, he began combining broadcasting work, a career he pursued after his playing days ended.

Currently, Azinger covers the PGA Tour Champions for Golf Channel.

Stewart was one of the most popular players on the PGA Tour in the 1980s and 1990s. His unique outfits and extraordinary results made him a true fan favorite.

Stewart won 11 PGA Tour tournaments, including three major championships (the 1989 PGA Championship and the 1991 and 1999 US Open). He also represented the United States in five Ryder Cups, with three wins and one tie.

He died in a plane crash in October 1999.

More Golf: The Open: Scottie Scheffler Sets Multiple Records With Fourth Major Title