David Whelan (born 28 August 1961) is an English golf instructor and former professional golfer on the European Tour. Whelan was born in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, according to his profile on the European Tour website. He became a professional in 1981 and gained playing privileges on the European Tour in 1987, having been unsuccessful in five previous attempts. During his first year on tour, 1988, he needed a £500 loan from his parents to participate in the Barcelona Open, which he received. Whelan won the tournament by defeating three players in a playoff, including Nick Faldo. In his career, he played in The Open Championship five times, with three made cuts.