Jack Nicklaus

Jack William Nicklaus, also known as 'the Golden Bear', was born on January 21, 1940. He is a retired American professional golfer and golf course designer.

In 1957, Jack Nicklaus earned the nickname 'The Golden Bear' during his high school years in Ohio, a moniker that would become synonymous with his legendary golf career.

In 1959, while attending Ohio State, Jack Nicklaus won the U.S. Amateur by defeating Charles Coe in the final match, becoming the then-youngest champion in the modern era.

In November 1961, at the age of 21, Jack Nicklaus decided to pursue a professional golf career, marking a significant turning point in his life. This decision laid the foundation for his legendary success in the sport.

In 32 out of 38 appearances, including 23 consecutively from 1962 through 1984, Jack Nicklaus made the cut in golf tournaments, highlighting his remarkable ability to consistently qualify for the later stages of events.

In June 1962, Jack Nicklaus claimed his first U.S. Open title, the first of his four victories in this major golf championship.

In his 17th start on the PGA Tour, Nicklaus won his first PGA tournament by defeating Arnold Palmer in a playoff at the 1962 U.S. Open at Oakmont. This victory marked his first major championship win and solidified his place in the golfing world.

On April 7, 1963, Jack Nicklaus won his first Masters Tournament, the first of his six victories in this prestigious golf event.

On July 13, 1963, Jack Nicklaus secured his first PGA Championship, the beginning of his five victories in this esteemed golf tournament.

From 1964 through 1984, Jack Nicklaus made 21 consecutive cuts in golf tournaments, showcasing his consistency and skill over two decades.

After making some minor changes to Augusta National, Nicklaus successfully defended his Masters title in 1965, winning in an 18-hole playoff over Gay Brewer and Tommy Jacobs.

From 1966 to 1980, Jack Nicklaus never finished worse than sixth in golf tournaments, demonstrating his exceptional consistency and competitiveness over a long period.

In July 1966, Jack Nicklaus clinched his second British Open title, adding to his impressive list of major championship wins.

Nicklaus won the U.S. Open for the second time in 1967 at Baltusrol, breaking Hogan's 72-hole record and finishing with a dramatic 1-iron shot on the 72nd hole.

Nicklaus started playing on Ryder Cup teams in 1969. If today's qualification standards were applied retroactively, he would have been eligible for the 1963, 1965, and 1967 teams. He would have likely been on the 1979 team as well if captain's picks were available earlier.

From 1970 to 1980, Jack Nicklaus achieved a record 11 straight top-five finishes in golf tournaments, showcasing his dominance and skill during that period.

Nicklaus won the 1970 Open Championship in Scotland under difficult scoring conditions, defeating Doug Sanders in an 18-hole playoff round. He clinched the victory with an eagle putt on the 18th hole.

In 1971, Jack Nicklaus had a remarkable year in golf, winning multiple PGA tournaments including the Tournament of Champions and the National Team Championship. He also set a new single-season money record and claimed his third World Cup individual title. Nicklaus achieved several course records and had an impressive record in the Ryder Cup competition.

In June 1972, Jack Nicklaus claimed another U.S. Open title, adding to his major championship victories.

On August 12, 1973, American golfer Jack Nicklaus won the Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA) championship for his 14th major title, surpassing Bobby Jones’ record of 13 major championships. Nicklaus went on to win 18 major tournaments, a record that still stands today.

On December 1, 1973, Jack Nicklaus became the first PGA Tour player to reach the $2,000,000 mark in career earnings.

On April 13, 1975, Jack Nicklaus won his fifth Masters tournament by defeating Tom Weiskopf and Johnny Miller in a thrilling final round battle. His victory was highlighted by a 40-foot birdie putt on the 16th hole.

In 1976, Jack Nicklaus won the inaugural semi-full field World Series of Golf championship by four shots over Hale Irwin. This victory marked his third official PGA event win at Firestone Country Club.

In 1977, Jack Nicklaus became the first player to break 270 for four rounds in a golf tournament, showcasing his exceptional skill and setting a new milestone in the sport.

On May 2, 1977, Jack Nicklaus achieved another milestone by reaching the $3,000,000 mark in career earnings on the PGA Tour.

On July 15, 1978, Jack Nicklaus emerged victorious at the British Open, adding another major championship to his illustrious career.

On August 10, 1980, Jack Nicklaus emerges victorious at the 1980 PGA Championship, adding another major title to his illustrious career. This win further cements his status as one of the most successful and revered golfers of all time.

During the final round of the 1982 U.S. Open, Jack Nicklaus set a record by making five consecutive birdies, demonstrating his exceptional performance under pressure.

February 6, 1983, marked the day when Jack Nicklaus reached the $4,000,000 mark in career earnings, solidifying his position as a top earner in PGA Tour history.

On April 13, 1986, Jack Nicklaus continued his successful streak by securing his 6th Masters win. This victory added to his already impressive list of achievements in golf, showcasing his enduring talent and determination in the sport.

Jack Nicklaus reached the $5,000,000 mark in career earnings on August 20, 1988, further establishing his financial success in professional golf.

In January 1990, Jack Nicklaus became eligible to join the Senior PGA Tour, now known as the PGA Tour Champions. Despite playing a limited schedule, he went on to win 10 tournaments, including eight major championships.

Jack Nicklaus won a golf tournament by defeating Rodríguez in an 18-hole playoff. Nicklaus scored 65 while Rodríguez scored 69.

At the age of 53 in 1993, Jack Nicklaus became the oldest first-round leader, co-leading with four others after shooting a 67.

In 1996, Jack Nicklaus became the first person to win the same Senior PGA Tour event four times by capturing The Tradition tournament.

In 1998, at the age of 58, Jack Nicklaus tied for sixth place at the Masters despite being hampered by a painful left hip. His five-under-par 283 was the lowest 72-hole score in the Masters by a player older than fifty at that time.

At a dinner celebrating golf's first 100 years in the United States, Jack Nicklaus was honored as the Player of the Century. The selection was made by golf writers and officials, highlighting Nicklaus' dedication and commitment to the game.

In 2001, the individual became the first golfer and only the third athlete in the award's history to receive the Vince Lombardi Award of Excellence.

Jack Nicklaus co-founded the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation in 2004 with his wife Barbara. The foundation has raised over $100 million in less than 15 years and has had a significant impact on children's health care.

On May 19, 2014, the U.S. House of Representatives voted to pass a bill awarding Jack Nicklaus the Congressional Gold Medal for his service in promoting excellence and good sportsmanship.

Jack Nicklaus received the Lincoln Medal in 2018, making him one of the four individuals in history to achieve this prestigious recognition. The award highlighted his remarkable career and contributions to society.