Sam Saunders carries one of the most famous names in golf history as the grandson of the legendary Arnold Palmer.
While his lineage opened doors, Saunders carved his own path in professional golf with a career spanning over 15 years before his retirement in August 2024.
In this article, you will know Sam Saunders’s Net worth, career earnings, career overview, stats, relationship, and more.
Sam Saunders’s Biography
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Samuel Palmer Saunders |
| Date of Birth | July 30, 1987 |
| Age | 38 |
| Education | Clemson University |
| Nationality | United States |
| Height | 6 ft 0 in (1.83 m) |
| Weight | 175 lbs (79 kg) |
| Turned Pro | 2009 |
| Net Worth | $5 Million (Estimated) |
| Career Earnings | ~$3.5 Million (Official Money) |
| Wife | Kelly Saunders |
| Instagram Profile | @samsaundersgolf |
| Retired | August 2024 |
Early Career
Saunders discovered his passion for golf early, growing up under the mentorship of his grandfather, Arnold Palmer.
He attended Trinity Preparatory School in Winter Park, Florida, where he showcased his talent by winning the club championship at Bay Hill Club and Lodge by a staggering 17 strokes as a high school senior.
This victory earned him a special exemption to play in the PGA Tour event hosted by his grandfather in 2006.
He continued his development at Clemson University, where he played for the Tigers golf team.
His time at Clemson helped refine his game against top-tier collegiate competition. Eager to start his professional journey, he made the bold decision to skip his senior season and turned pro in 2009.
Professional Career
Saunders began his professional life grinding on developmental tours. He spent several years on the Nationwide Tour (now Korn Ferry Tour) and the PGA Tour, working hard to secure his card.
One of his most memorable moments came in 2017 when he shot a magical 59 at the Web.com Tour Championship at Atlantic Beach Country Club, his home course. This feat highlighted his scoring ability and remains a highlight of his career.
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Despite showing flashes of brilliance, including a playoff loss at the 2015 Puerto Rico Open, injuries often hindered his momentum. He suffered a broken leg in a skiing accident in 2021 and a collarbone injury from a skateboard accident in 2019.
In August 2024, after playing over 300 professional events, Saunders announced his retirement from professional golf following the Magnit Championship. He now focuses on his role within the Arnold Palmer Group.
Caddie
Throughout his career, Sam Saunders worked with various caddies, a common practice for tour pros. Notable among them was Spencer Seifert, who carried his bag during his time on the PGA Tour.
Saunders also shared a unique connection with caddying himself; at just 16 years old, he served as the caddie for his grandfather, Arnold Palmer, during the legend’s final Masters appearance in 2004.
Wife
Sam Saunders married his wife, Kelly Saunders, in 2012. They initially lived in Colorado but eventually settled in Atlantic Beach, Florida, to raise their family in a community similar to Sam’s own upbringing.
The couple has two sons: Cohen, Kelly’s son from a previous relationship whom Sam raises as his own, and Ace (Robert Ace Saunders), who was born around 2014.
The family enjoys an active outdoor lifestyle, often surfing and biking together near their Florida home.
Sam Saunders’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, Sam Saunders has an estimated net worth of $5 Million. This figure combines his career prize money, endorsement deals, and his involvement in the lucrative Arnold Palmer Group business ventures.
Career Earnings
| Year | Earnings (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2024 | $29,920 (Final Season) |
| 2019 | $413,887 |
| 2018 | $981,936 |
| Total Career | ~$3,456,499 |
Endorsements
During his playing days, Saunders represented major brands like Callaway Golf, which provided his equipment. He also wore Arnold Palmer Apparel, carrying on his grandfather’s iconic umbrella logo.
Post-retirement, his financial focus shifts to managing the family’s extensive business portfolio through the Arnold Palmer Group.
Career Stats
| Stat Category | Record |
|---|---|
| Professional Wins | 0 (PGA Tour) |
| Best PGA Tour Finish | T2 (2015 Puerto Rico Open) |
| Low Round | 59 (2017 Web.com Tour Championship) |
| Total PGA Tour Starts | 158 |
FAQs
1. Is Sam Saunders related to Arnold Palmer?
Yes, Sam Saunders is the grandson of golf legend Arnold Palmer. His mother, Amy Palmer Saunders, is Arnold Palmer’s daughter. Sam grew up playing at Bay Hill under his grandfather’s guidance.
2. Why did Sam Saunders retire from professional golf?
Sam Saunders retired in August 2024 to pursue new adventures and spend more time with his family. He dealt with several injuries in recent years, including a broken leg, which impacted his performance.
3. Has Sam Saunders ever won a PGA Tour event?
No, Sam Saunders did not win a PGA Tour event during his career. He came very close in 2015, finishing as a runner-up at the Puerto Rico Open after a five-way playoff.
4. What is Sam Saunders doing now after retirement?
After retiring from professional golf, Sam Saunders has taken on a role with the Arnold Palmer Group. He helps manage the family’s business interests and preserves his grandfather’s legacy in the sport.
5. Did Sam Saunders ever shoot a 59?
Yes, Sam Saunders shot a 59 during the first round of the Web.com Tour Championship in 2017. He achieved this milestone at his home course, Atlantic Beach Country Club in Florida.
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