In a tragic turn of events, the global golf community is reeling after a private jet carrying two legendary figures of the sport crashed late Sunday evening, leaving no survivors. Authorities confirmed that 62-year-old Hall of Famer Walter “Wally” Kensington and rising icon Trent Mallory, 34, were among the victims.
The aircraft, a twin-engine Falconjet, went down shortly after takeoff from Scottsdale Regional Airport. Preliminary reports suggest a sudden engine failure occurred minutes after liftoff, causing the jet to spiral out of control before crashing in a remote desert area. Emergency responders arrived within minutes, but the wreckage was engulfed in flames.
While both losses hit the sports world hard, it was the passing of Kensington—often considered one of the greatest precision players of all time—that sent visible shockwaves throughout the golfing universe. Fans, fellow players, and analysts described him as “the heartbeat of modern golf,” a man whose career inspired generations.
PGA Tour Commissioner Daniel Hawthorne released a somber statement early Monday:
“Today, we mourn two extraordinary athletes. Wally Kensington’s influence on the game is immeasurable, and Trent Mallory was destined for greatness. The world of golf has lost more than players—we’ve lost family.”
Kensington, a three-time Masters champion with over 40 professional wins, was known for his calm demeanor and flawless technique. His sudden death has left fans devastated, with vigils already forming at the Kensington Golf Academy in Florida.
Mallory, the younger star, had quickly risen through the ranks and was widely regarded as one of the sport’s brightest future hopes. His charismatic presence and aggressive playstyle had earned him a massive following in just a few years.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has opened an investigation and will release further details as they emerge. Meanwhile, tributes continue to pour in worldwide, and major tournaments are expected to hold moments of silence in honor of the fallen icons.
As the world mourns, one thing is clear: this tragedy marks a heartbreaking chapter in golf history, one that will be remembered for decades to come.