Steve DiMeglio could have kept it all to himself. He made some tough decisions without letting anyone know. But instead, he chose to publicize his travails. No, not for some brownie points. He did it because at least one other person might benefit from what he went through. That’s what makes the former USA Today and Golfweek writer a pure soul.
On July 22, 2022, DiMeglio was diagnosed with rectal cancer that had subsequently spread to his liver. He remained candid about his fight against the illness. 6 months later, he penned this. “On this date 6 months ago, I was told I had Stage 4 cancer. Asked how long would I live without treatment. Doc said 6 months. Forever indebted to the wonders of modern medicine, machinery, and doctors & nurses who have helped me vs this evil. To another 6 months & another. Onward”
Oh! The fighter that Steve DiMeglio was. It is this attitude that endeared him to the players.
Typically, world-class players are very cautious of the journalists surrounding them. But DiMeglio was different. In fact, even Tiger Woods, whose life has been a subject of intense scrutiny across media platforms, found it very comfortable to be around Steve DiMeglio. Woods and DiMeglio were often prone to ribbing each other on sight. Especially Woods, according to Bob Harig, never missed a chance to make fun of the writer’s short stature or compact frame. The golfer even ridiculed DiMeglio’s style and his habit of smoking.
But DiMeglio, the writer he is, never let up as well. He frequently called out Woods’s accuracy from the tee and even directed some jabs at the golfer’s personal life. That shows the level of comfort between the two. The 15-time major winner enjoyed such a close relationship with the writer. We can understand the tough times Tiger Woods went through when the famous journalist passed away.
The 82-time PGA Tour winner went on X (formerly Twitter) to express his condolences while drawing light on DiMeglio staying positive despite the illness. Some relationships are very impactful on an invisible level, and Woods’s friendship with DiMeglio seems similar.
Unfortunately the golf world lost part of our family today, beloved golf writer Steve DiMeglio. I was always very close to Steve and we texted and talked about how he needed to keep fighting to get better so we could see each other in the Bahamas last month. And we did. I am so…
— Tiger Woods (@TigerWoods) January 1, 2025
And it’s not just Tiger Woods who has followed suit to honor the legendary writer. Stewart Cink is a former PGA Tour pro and one-time major winner. He is currently competing on the PGA Tour Champions. The Cologuard Classic is not just another tournament on the PGA Tour Champions. This edition will hold a special place in the heart of Cink and many other golfers.
That is because Cink is not just playing for himself. Every player at the event today is wearing a blue ribbon in remembrance of someone who lost their battle with colon cancer. Cink is, too. He is honoring the late Steve DiMeglio. Cink saw the event as a fitting tribute to the writer’s legacy.
Similar to Cink, DiMeglio made several close friends during his time on and off the course.
DiMeglio’s close friendships on the course apart from Tiger Woods
The writer maintained good relationships in and around the golf course, making it easier to talk with the players. The likes of Keegan Bradley and Justin Thomas also formed close bonds with the writer during their time together in the world of golf.
Michelle Wie West was another player with whom DiMeglio maintained a close rapport. DiMeglio had taken many interviews with the LPGA pro, and the bond he formed with her was evident. She had tweeted on his passing, “Steve, I’m gonna miss you. Thank you for everything.”
Former LPGA Player and broadcaster Dottie Pepper also maintained a good relationship with the writer. “Golf loses a wonderful advocate and journalist. Humanity loses a good soul. Close pals for over 2 decades, we debated plenty of issues, but always with a healthy respect.” Pepper’s tweet really drives the emotions through.
To sum up, Steve DiMeglio’s legacy will stay alive through the relationships and friendships he forged throughout his long and esteemed career. The writer will be fondly remembered.
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