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London - Christy O'Connor Junior, one of the biggest names in the history of Irish golf, has died at the age of 67, the Golfing Union of Ireland (GUI) confirmed on Wednesday.
O'Connor is best remembered for beating Fred Couples in the 1989 Ryder Cup at The Belfry, a stunning two-iron shot at the last setting up an unlikely victory that helped to ensure the contest finished 14-14, meaning Europe retained the trophy.
He is believed to have been on holiday on the Spanish island of Tenerife when he died. A cause of death has not yet been disclosed.
The GUI described O'Connor as "a gentleman, an iconic figure of Irish golf and a true ambassador".
It added, in a statement: "He was a pioneer for professional Irish golfers and inspired a generation of players."
The nephew of another Irish golfing great, Christy O'Connor Senior, O'Connor made two Ryder Cup appearances and won 17 professional tournaments, including four victories on the European Tour.
In his latter years he was heavily involved in golf course design.
