Veteran Indian golfer Vijay Kumar has passed away in his hometown of Lucknow following a heart attack. He was 57.

A winner of the 2002 Indian Open and a four-time Order of Merit champion, Vijay was widely regarded as one of the most accomplished and respected figures in Indian professional golf. He turned professional in 1988 and went on to dominate the domestic circuit from the mid-1990s through the early 2000s, building an illustrious career filled with numerous titles.

His iconic victory at the 2002 Indian Open remains one of the defining moments in Indian golf history. Vijay is among a select group of just nine Indian golfers to have won the prestigious tournament. He also represented India at the Alfred Dunhill Cup in 1999, held at St. Andrews in Scotland.

Known for his exceptional skill, consistency, competitive spirit and exemplary sportsmanship, Vijay inspired generations of golfers and played a key role in the development of the sport in India.

Kapil Dev, President of the DP World Professional Golf Tour of India, expressed his condolences, saying, “Vijay Kumar ji was one of the true stalwarts of Indian golf. His achievements, humility, and dedication to the sport made him a role model for generations. His passing is a great loss to Indian golf, and we extend our heartfelt sympathies to his family and loved ones.”