Irish golfer Christy O’Connor Jr has died aged just 67, while on holiday in Tenerife.
The Galway native was a two-time Ryder Cup team member, most memorably a key part of the European team that retained the trophy at the Belfry in 1989.
O’Connor turned professional in 1967 and won four times on the European Tour and came in the top five at the British Open on three occasions.
He was referred to as O’Connor Jr because he was the nephew of another Irish golfing legend, Christy O’Connor Senior.
He also went on to have great success on the senior tour in both Europe and the US, twice winning the Senior British Open.
O'Connor was also well-known as a golf course designer and remained active in fundraising for his native Galway Bay Golf Club.
Golf fans have paid tribute to the well-loved sportsman online.
Very sad news about Christy O'Connor Jr - Left Ryder Cup legacy, great golf course in Monaghan and a very decent man by all accounts. #RIP
— Betswot (@Betswot) January 6, 2016
Awful news about Christy O' Connor Jr. One of the greatest golfers Ireland ever produced. RIP Mr.O'Connor
— Quilly 🇮🇪🇰🇷⛳ (@KennethQuillina) January 6, 2016
RIP Christy O'Connor Jr. One of the finest golfers now playing the fairways of the sky ⛳
— Lynne ☮️ (@tiedtheknot) January 6, 2016