Min Woo Lee, a rising star in international golf, continues to capture global attention with his aggressive playing style and impressive tournament results. As of 2024, Lee has firmly cemented his place among golf’s elite, thanks to strong performances across the European Tour and PGA Tour, along with a growing list of accolades. At just 26 years old, he is already a household name in Australian sports.
Early Life and Background
Born on July 27, 1998, in Perth, Western Australia, Min Woo Lee was raised in a golf-loving family. His parents, Soonam and Clara Lee, originally emigrated from South Korea to Australia in the early 1990s in pursuit of better opportunities. His older sister, Minjee Lee, is also a professional golfer and a major champion, making the Lee siblings one of the most talented duos in the sport today.
From a young age, Min Woo showed promise on the golf course. His junior career was decorated with achievements, the highlight being his victory at the 2016 U.S. Junior Amateur Championship—an event previously won by the likes of Tiger Woods and Jordan Spieth. That win marked him as a future star and laid the foundation for his transition into the professional ranks.
Professional Career and Achievements
Min Woo Lee turned professional in 2019 and quickly began making his presence felt on the international stage. Over the span of just five years, he has racked up four professional victories, with his most notable win coming at the 2021 Abrdn Scottish Open. That victory was a dramatic one—secured in a tense playoff against Thomas Detry and Matt Fitzpatrick.
In his still-young career, Lee has proven himself as a competitor capable of going toe-to-toe with some of the sport’s best. His performances in major tournaments have improved year by year, with his standout finish being a tie for fifth place at the 2023 U.S. Open.
Despite missing the cut at the 2024 Open Championship, Lee’s form throughout the year has been stellar. He secured a win at the 2023 Fortinet Australian PGA Championship and continued his momentum into 2024, collecting four top-5 finishes and 26 top-10 finishes by July. Highlights include a runner-up spot at the Rocket Mortgage Classic, another T2 finish at the Cognizant Classic, and a third-place showing at the ISPS Handa Australian Open.
Currently ranked No. 31 in the Official World Golf Rankings (OWGR), Min Woo Lee is set to represent Australia at the 2024 Paris Olympics—an honor reserved for the nation’s top athletes.
Unique Style of Play
What sets Min Woo Lee apart from many of his peers is his fearless, fast-paced approach. Often described as “aggressive,” his game is both thrilling to watch and highly effective under pressure. One of his signature moves is the “stinger shot”—a low, piercing drive that cuts through wind with precision. This shot has become a trademark and often draws admiration from fans and fellow pros alike.
His flair and charisma on the course have also earned him a loyal following, with many considering him one of the most exciting players to emerge from Australia in recent years.
Net Worth and Career Earnings
As of 2024, Min Woo Lee’s estimated net worth stands at approximately $5 million. This figure combines his tournament winnings, endorsements, and other career-related income streams.
His total career earnings from professional golf, primarily on the European Tour and PGA Tour, are around €6.8 million (approximately $7.4 million). This translates to an estimated average of €1.3 million ($1.4 million) annually since turning pro. It’s worth noting that unlike athletes in team sports, professional golfers do not receive fixed annual salaries; instead, they rely on prize money and performance-based earnings.
In his most recent tournaments, Lee finished 73rd at the 2024 Genesis Scottish Open, earning $18,540, and claimed $616,400 with a second-place finish at the Rocket Mortgage Classic. His consistency across events continues to bolster both his global ranking and his financial success.
Endorsements and Sponsorships
Min Woo Lee’s marketability has attracted partnerships with several major brands. As of July 2024, he holds endorsement deals with Callaway, FootJoy, and ADP. These partnerships not only reflect his rising stature in the sport but also contribute significantly to his off-course income. Although the specific financial terms of these endorsements have not been publicly disclosed, they play a crucial role in building his net worth.
Personal Life and Residence
Min Woo Lee currently resides in his hometown of Perth, Western Australia. While he keeps much of his personal life private, it’s clear that his family continues to play a major role in his journey. With his sister Minjee Lee already a decorated champion, the Lees have become something of a golfing dynasty in Australia.
Though the exact location of his home is undisclosed for privacy reasons, Lee often shares glimpses of his life in Perth on social media, offering fans a peek behind the scenes of his lifestyle and training.
What’s Next for Min Woo Lee?
Looking ahead, Min Woo Lee is poised to have an even more impactful second half of the 2024 season. With the Paris Olympics on the horizon and several key tournaments lined up, expectations are high. Whether it’s his electric playing style, impressive results, or marketability, one thing is certain—Min Woo Lee’s star is still on the rise.
