Sarumaru Sarutani is the central figure, portrayed as a wild and untamed boy possessing exceptional golfing abilities. His journey traces significant growth from novice to skilled professional golfer. He confronts challenges and rivals, including Mr. X and a shadowy golf organization, which act as catalysts for his development. Throughout the series, he masters new golf techniques and forms alliances with comrades supporting his progression.

His family background includes Nakamaru Saruya, Daimaru Saruya, Gomaru, his sister, and his mother. Physically, he is depicted as 156 cm tall. A life-size monument on Himi City's Manga Road captures him executing a powerful golf shot toward the 13th hole on Karashima Island with the Tateyama Mountain Range in the background.

The character appears across franchise installments: the initial 1985–1988 TV series, its second season *New Pro Golfer Saru*, and specials *Pro Golfer Saru: Super Golf World e no Chousen!!* and *Pro Golfer Saru: Kouga Hikyou! Kage no Ninpou Golfer Sanjou!*. Key antagonists and allies shaping his experiences include friend Wakaba, primary adversary Mr. X, and rivals Dragon, Red Hawk, and White Bear.