Chris Gotterup has captured the hearts of fans worldwideânot just with his golf, but with an extraordinary act of generosity. Following his stunning victory at the 2025 Genesis Scottish Open, the 25-year-old American golfer made headlines once again by donating his entire $1.6 million prize purse to Mencap, a UK-based childrenâs charity that supports individuals with learning disabilities.

The announcement came just hours after Gotterup clinched the biggest win of his career at The Renaissance Club. While the golf world was already buzzing over his composure, talent, and meteoric rise on the PGA Tour, it was his decision off the course that made an even deeper impact.
âIâve been blessed to do what I love and be supported by so many great people,â Gotterup said in a brief but emotional statement. âI wanted to give back in a meaningful way, and Mencapâs mission really spoke to me. Every child deserves love, support, and a chance to thrive.â

Mencap, founded in 1946, works to improve the lives of children and adults with learning disabilities through advocacy, care services, and education programs. The organization expressed its gratitude on social media, calling Gotterupâs donation âa life-changing giftâ that will help expand programs across the UK and offer more children access to critical support.
âThis kind of generosity doesnât come along every day,â said Mencap CEO Edel Harris. âChrisâs contribution will allow us to provide better education, care, and support to children and families who need it most. Weâre beyond grateful.â
The reaction from fans, fellow golfers, and commentators was overwhelmingly positive. On social media, tributes poured in not only for Gotterupâs impressive play, but also for his character. âWhat a guy,â wrote one Twitter user. âThis is what true sportsmanship and leadership look like.â
PGA Tour players also chimed in with praise. âChris has always had a big heart,â said Justin Thomas. âThis is next level. It shows that heâs not just a great golfer, but a great human being.â
Gotterupâs decision to donate such a large sum was unexpected, especially considering that heâs still early in his professional career. But it wasnât entirely out of character. Those close to him describe him as humble, grounded, and deeply aware of the platform he now has to make a difference.
His gesture also comes at a time when golf is facing criticism over rising prize money and commercialism. Gotterupâs move served as a reminder of the positive impact athletes can have when they use their influence for good.
As he moves forward in his career, Gotterup has not only proven that he can win on the biggest stages, but also that heâs committed to leaving a lasting legacy beyond the fairways. For many in the golf world, this weekâs victory will be remembered not just for the trophyâbut for the generosity that followed.