GOLF star Joel Dahmen has opened about overcoming cancer and his mother’s death.
Sports fan have got a look into the personal lives of several golf stars following the release of Netflix’s Full Swing series.
GettyDahmen revealed that he had been through a lot during his time in golf[/caption]
GettyThe easygoing golfer is currently ranked no.58 in the world[/caption]
The show follows a number of big names as they battle for success and the soul of the sport amid the LIV controversy.
But episode four provided a fascinating insight into the humble and self-deprecating life of Dahmen.
The star does not think much of his own talents, saying at one point: “Somebody’s got to be the 70th-best golfer in the world. It might as well be me.”
Fans were also told about the many hurdles he has had to overcome.
When Dahmen was a junior golf star in Washington, the American showed so much potential he was awarded with a scholarship.
But before he could set off for college Dahmen’s mother was diagnosed with terminal cancer and died only six months later.
The heartbroken golfer said on Full Swing: “She did everything for me. I never made my bed, I never did laundry. I was so spoiled by her.”
Dahmen recalls his struggles after her death and called himself a “leaf in the wind” with no direction.
He did eventually get back on track and turned professional in 2010 but a year later was diagnosed with testicular cancer.
But Dahmen, now 35, managed to pull through and reflected on how that particularly challenging period shaped his life.
He said: “I think myself having cancer probably changed my life for the better.
“To not take life for granted, try your best and do all the right things. Maybe a blessing in disguise.”
Dahmen is still trying to put his name on the map in the golfing arena but almost went all the way in last year’s US Open.
The star was the surprise leader after round two but could not keep up with eventual winner Matt Fitzpatrick.
He has one PGA Tour win to his name and is currently ranked 58th in the world.