Fredrik Andersson Hed dead: European Tour champion dies aged 49

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Swedish golf star Fredrik Andersson Hed has died of cancer aged 49. Andersson Hed, who won the Italian Open in 2010 on his 245th attempt, retired from golf in 2015 after turning professional back in 1992. 

His 2010 campaign was the most successful year of his career as he reached a career-high 22nd place in the rankings on Order of Merit while also finishing tied second – one shot behind the winner – at the European Tour’s flagship event, the 2010 PGA Championship at Wentworth Club.

Andersson Hed – who was known as Fredrik Andersson before adding his wife’s surname after their marriage in 2004 – also registered two victories on the Challenge Tour, and he retired after 358 European Tour appearances with a record of one victory, six runner-up spots, 31 top tens and 191 cuts made. 

He lived in the Swedish city of Halmstad and tragically leaves behind wife Anna and children Viggo and Molly.

In 2016, Andersson Hed became a golf commentator for the national public broadcaster Sveriges Television.

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The European Tour announced the sad news with tributes coming in from many different figures in golf.

Thomas Bjorn took to social media to pay his respects to the late professional golfer.

“I’m so deeply saddened by this,” the European Tour star wrote on Twitter.

“Freddie was a true professional that will be missed by us all. A great ambassador for our game and for Sweden. 

“Thoughts are with Anna, Viggo and Molly at this time.”

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Governing body officials have also paid tributes to Andersson Hed, with European Tour Chief Operating Officer Keith Waters releasing a statement.

“On behalf of the European Tour, I send our deepest condolences to Fredrik’s family and friends, particularly his wife Anna and children Viggo and Molly,” the statement read.

“It’s always incredibly sad when we lose a member of the European Tour family, and never more so than in the case of someone like Fredrik, who was taken far too soon.

“Fredrik was much loved in the golfing world and beyond, particularly amongst our Scandinavian players and staff, past and present. Our hearts go out to them at this incredibly sad time.

“I had the pleasure of knowing Fredrik, but even for those who didn’t, one glance at his career record highlights his strength and perseverance, with some genuinely wonderful moments as an individual and a valued team mate. 

“I hope those close to him take some comfort in those wonderful memories, and the joy he brought to so many on the golf course.”

Andersson Hed’s fellow pro Richard Bland also took to social media to pay tribute to the Swede: “Wow! Such terrible news.

“I remember playing with him many times. Such a great lad to be around. 

“Thoughts are with his family at this awful time. RIP Fred.”

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