The 120+ Best Golfers Of All Time
When it comes to discussing the best golfers of all time, everyone has a favorite. Golf has a rich history filled with legends who have elevated the sport through their incredible talent, dedication, and sportsmanship. From early trailblazers to modern-day icons, these golfers have left legacies that inspire both casual players and dedicated fans alike.
Take Jack Nicklaus, often dubbed "The Golden Bear," with his record 18 major championships and unmatched consistency. Then there’s Tiger Woods, whose remarkable runs and multiple comebacks have made him a household name and an inspiration across generations. A newer face, Collin Morikawa, has already started making waves with his major championships and steady performance, proving that the future of golf is in good hands.
So, who do you think deserves to be crowned as the ultimate legend on the green? Vote on who you think the best golfers of all time are and let your voice be heard. Help us figure out which golfers have truly left an indelible mark on the sport. Your input will add to the appreciation and recognition of these extraordinary athletes.
- 1
PGA Tour: 82 wins
Masters: 5 wins (1997, 2001, 2002, 2005, 2019)
US Open: 3 wins (2000, 2002, 2008)
British Open: 3 wins (2000, 2005, 2006)
US PGA: 4 wins (1999, 2000, 2006, 2007)Tiger Woods has been a transformative figure in the world of golf since bursting onto the scene in the late 1990s. Known for his prodigious talent and fierce competitive nature, Woods has amassed 15 major championships and 82 PGA Tour wins, tying the record for the most tour victories. His 1997 Masters win by a record 12 strokes solidified his status as a golfing prodigy. Despite facing multiple personal and physical setbacks, Woods’ 2019 Masters comeback win is considered one of the greatest in sports history. Beyond his accomplishments, Woods has greatly increased the sport’s global popularity and resonance.
- Age: 49
- 2
PGA Tour: 73 wins
Masters: 6 wins (1963, 1965, 1966, 1972, 1975, 1986)
US Open: 4 wins (1962, 1967, 1972, 1980)
British Open: 3 wins (1966, 1970, 1978)
US PGA: 5 wins (1963, 1971, 1973, 1975, 1980)Jack Nicklaus, known as "The Golden Bear," is widely regarded as one of the greatest golfers of all time. Born in 1940, Nicklaus amassed a record 18 major championships over a career that spanned more than two decades. His precision, consistency, and competitive spirit set him apart, with memorable wins at the Masters, U.S. Open, British Open, and PGA Championship. Beyond his playing achievements, Nicklaus has also made significant contributions to golf course design and philanthropy. His influence on the sport is profound, inspiring countless golfers and leaving a lasting legacy in the world of golf.
- Age: 85
- 3
PGA Tour: 64 wins
Masters: 2 wins (1951, 1953)
US Open: 4 wins (1948, 1950, 1951, 1953)
British Open: 1 win (1953)
US PGA: 2 wins (1946, 1948)Ben Hogan is revered as one of golf’s all-time greats, celebrated for his exceptional ball-striking ability and intense dedication to the sport. Hogan's career includes nine major championships, with landmark victories such as the 1953 "Triple Crown" when he won the Masters, U.S. Open, and The Open Championship in the same year. His legacy is further cemented by his remarkable comeback after a near-fatal car accident in 1949, which showcased his resilience and determination. Known for his meticulous approach and pioneering golf swing techniques, Hogan’s influence continues to inspire and educate golfers around the world.
- Age: Dec. at 84 (1912-1997)
- 4
PGA Tour: 62 wins
Masters: 4 wins (1958, 1960, 1962, 1964)
US Open: 1 win (1960)
British Open: 2 wins (1961, 1962)Arnold Palmer, affectionately known as "The King," is one of golf's most iconic figures. With 62 PGA Tour wins, including seven major championships, Palmer captivated fans with his charismatic personality and aggressive playing style. His wins at the Masters, U.S. Open, and The Open Championship during the 1950s and 1960s brought him widespread acclaim. Beyond his on-course success, Palmer played a pivotal role in popularizing golf through television, making the sport more accessible and appealing to a broader audience. His contributions to golf and his lasting legacy of sportsmanship and philanthropy continue to inspire new generations of golfers.
- Age: 95
- 5
PGA Tour: 82 wins
Masters: 3 wins (1949, 1952, 1954)
British Open: 1 win (1946)
US PGA: 3 wins (1942, 1949, 1951)Sam Snead, known for his smooth swing and remarkable longevity in golf, boasts one of the most illustrious careers in the sport. With a record 82 PGA Tour victories, Snead's winning span stretches over four decades from the 1930s to the 1960s. His major triumphs include three Masters, three PGA Championships, and a British Open. Despite never winning the U.S. Open, his near-misses only added to his legendary status. Renowned for his fluid "Sam Snead Swing," Snead's technique remains a benchmark for golfers. His approachable demeanor and competitive spirit left an indelible mark on golfing history.
- Age: Dec. at 89 (1912-2002)
- 6
PGA Tour: 9 wins
US Open: 4 wins (1923, 1926, 1929, 1930)
British Open: 3 wins (1926, 1927, 1930)Bobby Jones stands as a cornerstone in the history of golf, celebrated for his extraordinary achievements as an amateur. In 1930, he accomplished an unparalleled feat by winning the Grand Slam, securing victories in the U.S. Open, British Open, U.S. Amateur, and British Amateur in the same year. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Jones remained an amateur throughout his career, highlighting his love for the sport. He co-founded Augusta National Golf Club and the prestigious Masters Tournament. Renowned for his sportsmanship, intelligence, and influence, Jones’s legacy continues to define the spirit of golf today.
- Age: Dec. at 69 (1902-1971)
