10 facts you need to know about history-maker Anirban Lahiri

Anirban Lahiri created history on Sunday, 16 August, when he finished tied fifth at the PGA Masters in Whistling Straits, Wisconsin, the highest ever finish by an Indian at a golf major. In the process, Lahiri ensured his progression to a career high world ranking of 38, a jump of 15 places from his last position. Having won two titles earlier this year, Lahiri has now firmly established himself as the best golfer in the country.

Here is a look at some interesting facts about the Indian golf sensation:

1. Anirban Lahiri first learned playing golf from his father, who was a physician employed with the Armed Forces.
2. He turned professional in the year 2007, and joined the Asian Tour in 2008, finishing 111th on the Asian Tour Order of Merit in his first year.
3. He won his first title in 2011, when he won the Panasonic Open in Delhi.
4. From 2012, he has won at least one international event every year, taking his overall title tally in the Asian Tour to 7 this year.
5. In 2014, he was awarded the Arjuna Award for his outstanding performances in the sport. He is the eight golfer to receive the award.
6. In the same year in May, he married his long-time girlfriend Ipsa Jamwal.
7. Lahiri is a big fan of golf legend Tiger Woods.
8. Before taking up the sport seriously, Lahiri had also pursued squash for a few years.
9. Prior to his fifth place finish at Whistling Straits, his best performance at a major had been a tied 31st place at the 2012 British Open.
10. Lahiri has credited his improved form in recent years to regular Vipassana practice.