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Who is the Best Golfer of All Time​? [2025 Update]

Jan 14, 2025 Mulligan Steele

Over the years, there have been countless exceptional golfers, making it a challenge to pinpoint the best of all time. As someone who’s been golfing for ten years, and after gathering insights from fellow golfers and extensive online research, I’ve compiled a list of the top ten golfers and explored why they are highly regarded by the golfing community.

10 Best Golfers of All Time

1. Jack Nicklaus

Jack Nicklaus

Nickname: The Golden Bear

Professional Career: 1962-2003

Major Championships: 18 Major wins (6 Masters, 5 PGA Championships, 4 U.S. Opens, 3 The Open Championships)

Reason for Inclusion:

Widely regarded as the greatest golfer of all time, the "Golden Bear" is best known for his unparalleled 18 Major Championships — the most in history. It's hard to imagine anyone surpassing Jack Nicklaus, cementing his legacy as a true legend in the sport. His taste for elegance is often reflected in his high-quality quarter-zip pullover, embodying both his refined sense of style and relentless pursuit of excellence.

Major Awards:

PGA Player of the Year: 5 times (1967, 1971, 1973, 1975, 1976)

Vardon Trophy (leading PGA Tour scoring average): 5 times

Presidential Medal of Freedom: Awarded in 2005 for his contribution to the sport and beyond.

2. Tiger Woods

Tiger Woods

Nickname: Tiger

Professional Career: 1996-Present

Major Championships: 15 Major wins (5 Masters, 4 PGA Championships, 3 U.S. Opens, 3 The Open Championships)

Reason for Inclusion:

Tiger Woods has elevated the game of golf with his dominance, charisma, and unmatched skill. With 15 Major wins, including one of the most remarkable comebacks in sports history, Tiger has secured his place among the sport’s greatest. His signature golf polos and sharp, professional look are as much a part of his image as his precision and grace on the course.

Major Awards:

PGA Player of the Year: 11 times (1997, 1999, 2000-2002, 2005-2006, 2007, 2013-2014)

Vardon Trophy: 9 times

Presidential Medal of Freedom: 2019

The Associated Press Male Athlete of the Year: 5 times

Laureus World Sportsman of the Year: 2 times

3.  Ben Hogan

Ben Hogan

Nickname: The Hawk

Professional Career: 1938-1959

Major Championships: 9 Major wins (4 U.S. Opens, 2 Masters, 2 PGA Championships, 1 The Open Championship)

Reason for Inclusion:

Ben Hogan is celebrated for his incredible ball-striking ability and determination. He won 9 Majors, and his legendary comeback from a life-threatening car accident in 1949 stands as one of the most remarkable stories in golf. I chose Hogan over Sam Snead because of his profound impact on the game and his victory in five Majors, despite doctors saying he might never walk again. His smooth playing style mirrored his sharp appearance, often seen in a crisp golf polo paired with high-quality golf joggers — a look that was as polished as his game.

Major Awards:

PGA Player of the Year: 2 times (1953, 1954)

Vardon Trophy: 4 times

Ben Hogan Award: Given annually to a golfer who has overcome a physical disability.

4.  Phil Mickelson

Phil Mickelson

Nickname: Lefty

Professional Career: 1992-Present

Major Championships: 6 Major wins (3 Masters, 2 PGA Championships, 1 The Open Championship)

Reason for Inclusion:

Phil Mickelson is one of the most charismatic and skilled players in the history of golf. With six Major victories and numerous top finishes throughout his career, he remains a top contender in the sport. His long and successful career includes an impressive amateur resume with one tour championship, three NCAA titles, and the Haskins Award (a title he shares with only one other player, Kuchar). Known for his enduring presence on the PGA Tour and consistently high world rankings, Phil often sports a stylish golf cap, enhancing his already impressive appearance.

Major Awards:

PGA Player of the Year: 2000

Vardon Trophy: 1 time (1996)

Masters Champion: 3 times (2004, 2006, 2010)

Laureus World Sportsman of the Year: 2001

5.  Walter Hagen

Walter Hagen

Nickname: The Haig

Professional Career: 1927-1935

Major Championships: 11 Major wins (5 PGA Championships, 4 The Open Championships, 2 U.S. Opens)

Reason for Inclusion:

Walter Hagen is one of the most influential figures in golf history. Not only was he a great player, but he also played a key role in turning golf into a professional sport, shaping the game we know today.

Major Awards:

PGA Player of the Year: 1 time (1924)

World Golf Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1974

6.  Bobby Jones

Bobby Jones

Nickname: The Grand Slammer

Professional Career: 1923-1930

Major Championships: 7 Major wins (4 U.S. Opens, 3 The Open Championships)

Reason for Inclusion:

Bobby Jones is a defining figure in the world of golf, especially noted for his achievements both as an amateur and professional. His Grand Slam win in 1930 remains a legendary accomplishment. Even when compared to modern golfers, Jones stands out as a true pioneer. He is the only player to win the Grand Slam in one calendar year, including two Major titles, and his feats often took him across the Atlantic, requiring longer travels than today's golf circuit. Jones also founded the prestigious Masters Tournament, one of the most renowned invitations in golf.

Major Awards:

U.S. Amateur Champion: 5 times

World Golf Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1974

The Bobby Jones Award: Given annually to individuals who have made the greatest contributions to golf.

7. Arnold Palmer

Arnold Palmer

Nickname: The King

Professional Career: 1954-2006

Major Championships: 7 Major wins (4 Masters, 1 U.S. Open, 2 The Open Championships)

Reason for Inclusion:

Known for his personality, aggressive playing style, and leadership in bringing golf to a broader audience in the 1960s, Arnold Palmer remains one of the most beloved golfers of all time.

Major Awards:

PGA Player of the Year: 3 times (1960, 1962, 1964)

Vardon Trophy: 1 time (1967)

Laureus World Sportsman of the Year: 1960

8. Gary Player

Gary Player

Nickname: The Black Knight

Professional Career: 1953-2009

Major Championships: 9 Major wins (3 Masters, 3 The Open Championships, 2 PGA Championships, 1 U.S. Open)

Reason for Inclusion:

The "Black Knight" is considered one of the most successful international players in golf history. With 9 Major titles and an incredibly disciplined fitness regimen, Gary Player set new standards for professional athletes.

Major Awards:

PGA Player of the Year: 2 times (1965, 1974)

Vardon Trophy: 3 times

Laureus World Sportsman of the Year: 1967

9. Sam Snead

Sam Snead

Nickname: Slammin’ Sammy

Professional Career: 1934-1987

Major Championships: 7 Major wins (3 The Open Championships, 3 Masters, 1 PGA Championship)

Reason for Inclusion:

Sam Snead is one of the most winning players in golf history, with 82 PGA Tour victories — a record he shares with Tiger Woods. His dominance on the course is an enduring legacy in the sport.

Major Awards:

PGA Player of the Year: 1 time (1949)

Vardon Trophy: 1 time (1949)

World Golf Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1974

10.  Tom Watson

Tom Watson

Nickname: Huckleberry Dillinger

Professional Career: 1971 – Present

Major Championships: 8 Major wins (5 The Open Championships, 2 U.S. Opens, 1 PGA Championship)

Reason for Inclusion:

Tom Watson's five Open Championship titles showcase his incredible dominance and consistency. His fierce competitive spirit and longevity place him firmly among the top golfers of all time.

Major Awards:

PGA Player of the Year: 2 times (1977, 1984)

Vardon Trophy: 2 times

Laureus World Sportsman of the Year: 1984

Conclusion

In conclusion, determining the best golfer of all time involves considering achievements, awards, skill level, etc. The list above highlights ten golfers widely respected by golfers, and as golf continues to evolve, new stars will emerge. However, these legendary figures will undoubtedly remain icons in the sport for many years.

FAQs

Who has won the most majors?

Jack Nicklaus holds the record for the most Major Championships in golf history, with 18 wins. That’s a mark that’s stood the test of time. While Tiger Woods has reached 15, Jack’s legacy remains strong as the king of Major victories.

Who faced tougher competition, Tiger or Jack?

This one’s a tough debate, but in terms of sheer competition, Tiger might have had the more challenging environment. During his prime, the field was incredibly deep, with so many players capable of winning on any given day. On the other hand, Jack Nicklaus competed in an era where the level of competition wasn’t as widespread, but he still had to go toe-to-toe with legends like Arnold Palmer and Gary Player. Both faced incredible challenges, but Tiger's era was arguably more competitive across the board.

Has anyone won all 4 majors?

Yes, someone has! Both Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods achieved the legendary grand slam, but the cool thing is, it’s not just about winning all four in a single year. The career grand slam – winning each of the four majors at least once in a golfer's lifetime – has been done by a few, including those two, plus players like Gary Player and Ben Hogan.

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