In this episode, I sit down with Tadd Fujikawa—a name you might remember from the headlines, but whose story goes far deeper than the spotlight ever showed.
At just 15, Tadd qualified for the U.S. Open. At 16, he made the cut at the Sony Open in his home state of Hawaii, becoming one of the youngest players ever to do so. He was a prodigy. A sensation. A walking headline.
But what the headlines didn’t show was everything else.
In this powerful, heartfelt conversation, Tadd opens up about:
🌺 Growing up in public housing in Kalihi, Hawaii—and how those early experiences shaped who he is
🌟 The mental toll of being thrust into the spotlight before he even finished high school
🧠 Quietly battling depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts while the world watched him smile
🏳️🌈 Coming out in 2018—and becoming one of the first openly gay male pro golfers in history
💬 Why he still believes in golf, in people, and in the power of being honest—even when it’s hard
In this episode: Pressure, identity, mental health, vulnerability, early fame, and coming out.
🔗 Listen now and share it with someone who you think would benefit from listening.
Watch a clip from Tadd's incredible run at the Sony Open at 16 years old: CLICK HERE
Follow Tadd Fujikawa on Instagram: @taddy808
Follow Florio Golf on Instagram: @florio_golf
