Anthony Simonsen is a name that has been echoing through the lanes of the bowling world for over a decade. With a dynamic personality and record-shattering talent, this young man has become a force to be reckoned with in the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA). But who is this bowling phenom, and how did he become a household name in the sport?

This article will take you through the life and career of Anthony Simonsen, from his early days as a rising star to his current status as one of the PBA’s brightest talents. We will also take a closer look at his unique bowling style, notable titles, and the impact he has had on the sport. So, without further ado, let’s step up to the lane and roll out the fascinating story of Anthony Simonsen.

Introduction to Anthony Simonsen: A Rising Star in the PBA

Anthony Walter Simonsen, better known as “Simo,” is an American professional ten-pin bowler. At just 27 years old, he has already etched his name into the history books of bowling. Born on January 6, 1997, in Austin, Texas, Simonsen stands at 5 feet 9 inches tall and bowls with a right-handed, two-handed delivery. He joined the PBA in 2014 and quickly made a name for himself, becoming the youngest player ever to win a PBA major championship at just 19 years old. This record-breaking achievement put Simonsen on the map, and he hasn’t slowed down since. With a growing list of titles and a unique style, he has become one of the most exciting players to watch in the PBA.

Anthony Simonsen: Career Overview

Early Life and Background: Texas Roots, Bowling Beginnings

Simonsen was born and raised in Austin, Texas, and it didn’t take long for bowling to become a part of his life. He first stepped onto the lanes at the young age of two, encouraged by his father, who was an avid bowler himself. Simonsen’s natural talent was evident from the start, and he quickly developed a passion for the sport. As a child, he spent countless hours at the bowling alley, refining his skills and soaking in the atmosphere. He joined a youth bowling league at seven and began to showcase his potential, regularly outperforming bowlers much older than him. Simonsen’s dedication and natural ability laid the foundation for his future success, and it wasn’t long before he set his sights on a professional career.

Bowling Career Beginnings: Joining the PBA

In 2014, at just 17 years old, Simonsen made the bold decision to turn pro and join the PBA. He hit the ground running, participating in his first PBA event, the PBA Wolf Open, where he finished an impressive third place. This strong start gave him the confidence to continue pursuing his dream. Simonsen’s talent was recognized early on, and he was soon selected to join Team USA. Representing his country, he won his first international medal, a bronze, in doubles at the 2014 PABCON Champion of Champions tournament in Las Vegas. This marked the beginning of a remarkable career, and Simonsen hasn’t looked back since.

Major Achievements and Records: Youngest PBA Champion and More

Simonsen’s career is highlighted by numerous achievements and records that have solidified his place in bowling history. The most notable of these accomplishments came in 2016 when he became the youngest PBA champion by winning the USBC Masters at just 19 years and 39 days old. This record-breaking victory earned him a spot in the PBA Hall of Fame, becoming the youngest inductee. Simonsen didn’t stop there; he went on to become the youngest player to reach two, three, four, and five career PBA major titles. As of 2023, he has accumulated nine PBA Tour titles, including five majors, and shows no signs of slowing down.

Unique Bowling Style: The Two-Handed Approach

What sets Simonsen apart from many of his competitors is his unique bowling style. He is a strong advocate and practitioner of the two-handed approach, which has revolutionized the sport in recent years. This style involves using both hands to deliver the ball, creating more power and revolution. Simonsen is known for his powerful release and high backswing, which generates incredible ball speed. His style has been described as dynamic and aggressive, often wowing spectators with his ability to generate tremendous pin carry. While the two-handed approach has its challenges, Simonsen has mastered the technique, and it has become a key factor in his success.

Notable Titles and Wins: A Growing List of Victories

Simonsen’s trophy cabinet is a testament to his talent and hard work. In addition to his USBC Masters victory, he has won a slew of other prestigious titles. He is a two-time winner of the PBA Players Championship (2019, 2022), a PBA Tour Finals winner (2021), and a two-time US Open champion (2021, 2022). Simonsen has also tasted success in team events, winning the PBA World Championship with his partner, E.J. Tackett, in 2017. This dynamic duo, known for their friendly rivalry, has dominated the lanes and continues to be a force to be reckoned with. Simonsen’s impressive list of victories has established him as one of the PBA’s most dominant players.

Recent Performances and Current Status: Consistency and Growth

Simonsen has consistently performed at a high level, and his recent performances showcase his continued growth as a bowler. In the 2022 season, he participated in 15 events, earning over $270,000 in prize money. He added two more titles to his collection, winning the PBA Players Championship and the Storm Cup: Team USA event. Simonsen’s 2023 season has been even more impressive, with 21 events and earnings exceeding $340,000 so far. He has already won two titles this year, the PBA Scorpion Championship and the USBC Masters, the latter being his second victory in this tournament. Simonsen’s current form and consistency prove that he is a force to be reckoned with and that his best years may still be ahead of him.

Personal Life and Interests: Away from the Lanes

When Simonsen steps away from the lanes, he enjoys spending time with his family and friends. He is a self-proclaimed foodie and often shares his culinary adventures on social media. Simonsen is also an avid sports fan, particularly of basketball and football. He is a supporter of the Dallas Mavericks and the Dallas Cowboys, often attending games when his schedule allows. In addition, Simonsen has a passion for music and plays the piano. He also enjoys traveling and exploring new places, often combining his love for bowling with his desire to see the world. Simonsen’s well-rounded personality and interests outside of bowling have contributed to his engaging presence both on and off the lanes.

Future Aspirations in Bowling: Leaving a Lasting Legacy

As Simonsen continues to dominate the PBA, he sets his sights on even greater achievements. He aims to add more major titles to his collection and solidify his place among the PBA’s all-time greats. Simonsen also hopes to inspire the next generation of bowlers and grow the sport’s popularity. With his dynamic personality and record-breaking talent, he is well on his way to achieving these goals. Simonsen’s impact on the sport is undeniable, and his legacy will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark on the world of bowling.

Conclusion: A Bowling Star Shines Bright

Anthony Simonsen’s journey from a young bowler in Texas to a PBA superstar is an inspiring tale of talent, dedication, and record-breaking achievements. With his unique bowling style and engaging personality, he has captivated the bowling world and attracted a new generation of fans to the sport. As Simonsen continues to pursue excellence, there is no doubt that he will add more chapters to his already impressive story. So, the next time you hear the name Anthony Simonsen, remember the remarkable bowler who has become a shining star in the world of ten-pin bowling.