Golfer Christy O’Connor Senior has died at the age of 91.

It has been reported that the legendary golfer passed away peacefully at the Mater Hospital this morning around 3.30am.

O’Connor Senior, was the uncle of Christy O’Connor Junior, also a golfer, who passed away in January.

Christy O’Connor Senior competed in 10 Ryder Cups and won the British Masters in 1956 and 1959.

He also won six PGA Senior Championships between 1976 and 1983.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny has expressed his sadness at the passing of Christy O’Connor Senior, saying: “Christy O’Connor Senior was known as ‘Himself’ and always was himself, a wonderful man who left an indelible mark on professional golf and the sporting world.

“He was a larger than life character and the owner of the best pair of wrists in the game.

“He was a master of touch and feel on the greens and his brilliant golf was iconic for so many people, ever before television brought golf tournaments into every home. As you might expect from a son of Ireland, rain or wind never mattered to him, he was always simply outstanding.

“I met him many times and it was always a pleasure to meet someone who epitomised Ireland and made us so proud. I would like to convey my deepest sympathies to his family and many friends. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.”