match to O'Connor. His good play was indispensable as Europe retained the cup with a 14–14 tie. As the 1990s approached, O'Connor was hitting his early 40s, around the time that many pro golfer's games decline. O'Connor played relatively well for a few years however. He would finish in the top 75 of the Order of Merit between 1990 and 1992, culminating with his victory at the 1992 British Masters. He hit several remarkable recovery shots from behind trees during the last round which he took advantage of, making equally remarkable birdies. The victory qualified him for the NEC World Series of Golf, a prestigious winners-only event in America. O'Connor would no longer remain competitive on the regular tour shortly after his win. He would not finish in the top 100 of the Order of Merit again after the 1992 season. He would, however, play very well for his first two seasons as a senior. Despite rarely playing in the United States during the heart of his career he decided to join the Senior PGA TOUR in 1999. He played full-time in 1999 and 2000, winning two events and earning over a million dollars. He would also play sporadically on the European Seniors Tour, winning the Senior British Open twice in back-to-back years. Personal life O'Connor was married to Ann. He had three children, Nigel, Ann, and Darren. His son Darren died in a car accident when he was 17 years old. O'Connor was a supporter of the Special Olympics. O'Connor was also active in golf course design, being involved in the design of at least 18 courses in Ireland, and many more abroad. O'Connor died whilst on holiday with his wife Ann on 6 January 2016 in Tenerife, Canary Islands. Professional wins (16) European Tour wins (4) European Tour playoff record (2–2) Safari Circuit wins (2) Other wins (6) 1973 Carroll's Irish Match Play Championship 1974 Irish Dunlop Tournament 1975 Carroll's Irish Match Play Championship 1976 Sumrie-Bournemouth Better-Ball (with Eamonn Darcy) 1977 Carroll's Irish Match Play Championship 1978 Sumrie-Bournemouth Better-Ball (with Eamonn Darcy) Senior PGA Tour wins (4) European Senior Tour wins (2) Source: Results in major championships CUT = missed the half-way cut (3rd round cut in 1984 Open Championship) "T" indicates a tie for a place Note: O'Connor never played in the U.S. Open or the PGA Championship. Senior major championships Wins (2) Team appearances Double Diamond