Golf’s history extends back to the 15th century in Scotland, and throughout the years, there have been sportsmen who mastered the sport and are considered legends due to their individual stories and the achievements they obtained throughout their entire careers.
Golf has become one of the most popular sports in the world over the last century. Golfers have grown famous all around the world, and playing golf has also given them fortune due to the enormous prize pools compared to other sports.
Today’s golfers owe a lot to the pioneers because it was they who paved the road for today’s new stars. In reverse order, these are some of the finest and most important players of all time!
Ben Hogan
The Hawk is still the greatest shotmaker in golf history. Rather than depending on today’s cutting-edge technology, Hogan had an incredible ability to control the trajectory of his ball to win nine majors — and a higher percentage of majors entered than even Jack Nicklaus.
He is one of just five players to have won all four Grand Slam tournaments. In 1953, he became the first person to win three majors in a single year, including the Masters and both Opens.
The 1971 Houston Champions International was Hogan’s last competition.
Walter Hagen
Hagen was one of the greatest players of the first half of the twentieth century, winning 11 major championships in his career.
Hagen, a native of New York, became a national hero when he became the first American to win the British Open title, and he went on to win four more Open titles.
Only the Masters title was lacking from his resume at the end of his career.
Sam Snead
If winning is the measure of greatness in golf, there has never been a better golfer than Sam Snead. Slammin’ Sammy won more golf tournaments than any other golfer, with a smooth, syrupy swing that appeared as natural and effortless as breathing.
He won 82 PGA Tour titles, and anywhere from 135 to 165 triumphs worldwide, depending on who you ask.
From the 1936 West Virginia Closed Pro to the 1965 Greater Greensboro Open (his ninth championship in that event), he won in four different decades.
Tiger Woods
Tiger Woods has already surpassed every golfer in history, with the exception of one, and he’s still playing. Most people believe he will soon overtake the top rank.
With 14 major titles, three career grand slams, three US Amateurs, 71 PGA Tour victories, and 97 worldwide wins, he may be the best golfer to ever play the game.
Jack Nicklaus
The “Golden Bear” is deservedly regarded as the best golfer in the world. With 73 PGA Tour victories and 18 Major Championships, he is the most successful golfer in history.
Tiger Woods is the only other golfer who is frequently compared to Jack Nicklaus (15 Majors). He also has the most top-ten finishes (73), as well as the most top-five finishes (56). Consistently excellent.
