How did a 17-year-old amateur who famously holed out at the 1998 Open Championship become an Olympic gold medalist, U.S. Open champion and former world No. 1? This Justin Rose Biography covers the English golfer’s age, hometown, wife, children, parents and career achievements as of 2026.
Justin Rose Biography at a Glance
| Full name | Justin Peter Rose |
|---|---|
| Date of birth | July 30, 1980 |
| Age in 2026 | 45 until July 29, 2026; 46 from July 30, 2026 |
| Birthplace | Johannesburg, South Africa |
| Hometown | Fleet, Hampshire, England |
| Nationality | English |
| Turned professional | 1998 |
| Wife | Kate Phillips Rose |
| Children | Two: Leo and Charlotte Rose |
| Major championship wins | 1, the 2013 U.S. Open |
| Olympic achievement | Gold medal, men’s individual golf, Rio 2016 |
Justin Rose Age, Hometown and Early Life
Justin Rose was born on July 30, 1980, in Johannesburg, South Africa. Although he was born in South Africa, he moved with his family to England when he was five years old and grew up in Fleet, Hampshire. Rose represents England in international golf and is widely recognized as one of the country’s most accomplished modern players.
His early golf development took place at Tylney Park Golf Club in Hampshire. Rose attended Robert May’s School in nearby Odiham and quickly developed into one of England’s most promising junior golfers. His breakthrough came at the 1998 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale, where the 17-year-old amateur holed a memorable pitch shot on the 72nd hole and finished tied for fourth place.
That Open Championship performance earned Rose the Silver Medal as the leading amateur and made him a household name. He turned professional shortly afterward in 1998.
Justin Rose Parents and Family Background
Justin Rose’s parents are Ken Rose and Annie Rose. His father, Ken, played an important role in introducing him to golf and supporting his junior career. Ken Rose died from leukemia in 2002, a deeply difficult moment in Justin’s life and professional journey.
Rose has often spoken about the influence of his parents and the sacrifices his family made while he pursued elite golf. His English upbringing, despite being born in Johannesburg, remains central to his identity as an English golfer.
Justin Rose Wife and Children
Justin Rose is married to Kate Phillips Rose, a former international gymnast. The couple married in December 2006 and have built a long-standing family life while Rose has competed around the world on the PGA Tour and DP World Tour.
Justin and Kate Rose have two children:
- Leo Rose, born in 2009
- Charlotte Rose, born in 2012
The Rose family has also been involved in charitable work through the Kate and Justin Rose Foundation, which has supported youth and family-focused causes.
Justin Rose Golf Career and Major Achievements
Justin Rose’s professional career includes success at many of golf’s most famous courses and tournaments. His biggest major victory came at the 2013 U.S. Open at Merion Golf Club in Pennsylvania. Rose shot a final-round 70 to finish at 1-over-par, defeating Phil Mickelson and Jason Day by two strokes.
In 2016, Rose made history when golf returned to the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. He won the men’s individual gold medal at Olympic Golf Course, finishing two strokes ahead of Sweden’s Henrik Stenson. Rose also recorded the first hole-in-one in Olympic golf history during the opening round.
Rose reached world No. 1 in the Official World Golf Ranking on September 10, 2018. He has won 12 PGA Tour titles through the 2025 season, including the 2025 FedEx St. Jude Championship, and has also earned 11 DP World Tour victories.
His Ryder Cup record is another major part of the Justin Rose biography. Rose has represented Europe six times, appearing in 2008, 2012, 2014, 2016, 2018 and 2023. He was a key member of winning European teams in 2012, 2014, 2016 and 2018.
Notable Justin Rose Career Highlights
- 1998 Open Championship leading amateur and tied fourth at Royal Birkdale
- 2013 U.S. Open champion at Merion Golf Club
- 2016 Olympic gold medalist in Rio de Janeiro
- Former Official World Golf Ranking No. 1
- 12 PGA Tour victories through 2025
- Six Ryder Cup appearances for Europe
- Runner-up at the 2025 Masters Tournament after a playoff against Rory McIlroy
Frequently Asked Questions About Justin Rose
Where is Justin Rose from?
Justin Rose was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, but grew up in Fleet, Hampshire, England.
Who is Justin Rose’s wife?
Justin Rose’s wife is Kate Phillips Rose. They married in December 2006.
How many children does Justin Rose have?
Justin Rose has two children, Leo Rose and Charlotte Rose.
Has Justin Rose won a major championship?
Yes. Justin Rose won the 2013 U.S. Open at Merion Golf Club, his first major championship title.
Did Justin Rose win an Olympic medal?
Yes. Rose won the gold medal in men’s golf at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
