Notah Begay III, one of the most influential figures in modern golf and Native American sports, has been selected as the 2026 recipient of the prestigious Payne Stewart Award. The annual honor recognizes individuals whose lives reflect exceptional character, sportsmanship, charitable service, and dedication to growing the game of golf.
A four-time PGA TOUR champion and longtime golf analyst for NBC Sports and Golf Channel, Begay becomes the latest member of an elite group of players whose impact extends well beyond tournament victories. The award acknowledges not only his accomplishments as a professional golfer but also nearly two decades of community service through the NB3 Foundation.
Founded in 2005, the NB3 Foundation has become a national leader in improving the health and well-being of Native American children. Through golf, fitness, nutrition, and youth development programs, the organization has reached tens of thousands of young people across Tribal communities, creating opportunities that encourage healthy lifestyles while opening doors to education and competitive athletics.
Born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Begay is Diné and a member of the San Felipe and Isleta Pueblos. He remains the only full-blooded Native American to compete on the PGA TOUR. Before turning professional, he starred at Stanford University, where he was a three-time All-American and helped lead the Cardinal to the 1994 NCAA Championship alongside teammate Tiger Woods.
Begay captured four PGA TOUR victories during his professional career, with two wins in 1999 and two more in 2000. Although injuries shortened his time as a full-time competitor, he successfully transitioned into broadcasting, where he has become one of golf’s most respected analysts while continuing to advocate for greater diversity and youth participation in the sport.
The Payne Stewart Award commemorates the legacy of three-time major champion Payne Stewart, whose life was tragically cut short in a 1999 plane crash. Established by the PGA TOUR in 2000, the award celebrates professionals who embody Stewart’s integrity, generosity, and respect for the traditions of golf.
As part of the honor, a $500,000 charitable grant will be distributed, with $300,000 directed to organizations chosen by Begay and the remaining $200,000 benefiting the Stewart Family Foundation. Begay will officially receive the award during a ceremony on August 25 in Atlanta, held in conjunction with the 2026 TOUR Championship.
