By Matt Smith
Jack Newton, the colourful Australian golfer who narrowly missed out on claiming the 1975 Open Championship and 1980 Masters has died. He was 72.

Newton it was confirmed that Newton passed away on Wednesday night due to health complications,.

Newton was defeated by Tom Watson at Carnoustie in a dramatic 1975 Open and was once again denied when Seve Ballesteros edged him out at Augusta National in 1980.

The New South Wales native saw his career cut short when he lost his right arm and eye at the age of 33 when he was by a spinning propeller as he prepared to board an aeroplane.

Following his career as a player he became a golf course architect and television commentator.

“On behalf of our family, it is with great sadness I announce that our courageous and loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, and mate, Jack Newton OAM [Order of Australia] has passed away overnight due to health complications,” said a statement from Newton’s son, Clint.

“He fought back from tremendous adversity as only he could, and chose to selflessly invest his time, energy, and effort towards giving back to the community through his Jack Newton Junior Golf Foundation, sports commentary, golf course design, and raising significant funds for several charities, most notably, diabetes.

“His passion for sport and contributing to future generations of golfers and the Australian community demonstrates the character of our father, beloved husband, proud brother, adoring grandfather, and maverick mate.”

Among Newton’s achievements as a player was winning the British Matchplay in 1974, the Buick-Goodwrench Open in 1978 and the Australian Open in 1979.

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