Notah Begay III, a four-time PGA Tour winner, was named the 2026 recipient of the Payne Stewart Award on July 20, 2026 [1, 2, 3]. The award honors a player who exemplifies the late Payne Stewart's values of character, charity, and sportsmanship [1, 2, 3].

Begay is the only full-blooded Native American to have played on the PGA Tour and is a member of the Navajo Nation with San Felipe and Isleta Pueblo heritage [1, 2, 3]. He founded the NB3 Foundation in 2005, which supports Native American children's health, development, fitness, nutrition, and community efforts including combating childhood obesity and type 2 diabetes among Native youth [1, 2, 3]. Now 21 years old, the foundation reflects Begay's commitment to uplift his community [1, 2, 3].

After his playing career, Begay has transitioned to broadcasting and currently works as an analyst for Golf Channel and NBC [1, 2, 3]. He was surprised to receive the award during an NBC rehearsal for The Open Championship when Aaron Stewart, Payne Stewart's son, presented it [3]. Begay said, "If you watch the video, there is a long pause because my mind could not process everything that had transpired in my life that led up to this moment—from where I grew up, to my golf career, to deciding to make a lifelong investment in my Native community..." [3]

Begay called Payne Stewart "the very best of our game, not only in how he competed, but in how he lived his life and gave back to others. To be associated with his legacy is truly special," and added, "Golf has given me a platform to serve, and I’ve always believed it’s our responsibility to use that platform to uplift others, especially the next generation. This recognition allows me to make a meaningful impact in the communities I’ve had the privilege to represent." [1]

The Payne Stewart Award, presented annually by Southern Company and the PGA Tour, commemorates Stewart who died in a 1999 plane crash and won 11 PGA Tour events including three major championships [1, 2, 3]. Begay described the award as "the highest honor that you can get" [3].

Begay will be honored in the official Payne Stewart Award ceremony on August 25, 2026, during the TOUR Championship in Atlanta [1, 2].