Credits Brazil being awarded the 2016 Summer Olympics as turning his career around. After the announcement, he changed his instructor, manager and equipment.

Biggest thrill in golf is hitting a 3-iron to one foot.

Spending time with his son is his biggest thrill outside of golf. Would most like to play Muirfield Village GC in Dublin, Ohio, home of the Memorial Tournament and the 2013 Presidents Cup.

Never travels without his iPod. Favorite college team is Mississippi State. Favorite professional teams are the Orlando Magic and New York Giants.

Favorite TV show is "Friday Night Lights." Favorite movie is "Ocean's Eleven." Lists Brazilian barbecue as his favorite food.

Huge fan of Formula 1 racing.

Was a 2000 first-team All-American at Mississippi State after receiving honorable mention All-American honors in 1999.

Could not speak English when he arrived on campus in Starkville, Miss., from his native Brazil.

Notable wins came at the 1992 and 1995 South American Championship, the 1993 and 1995 Brazil National Junior Championship and the 1994 and 1997 Brazil National Championship.