Golf is a sport that has captivated millions of people around the world for centuries. From casual players to seasoned professionals, the game's popularity has only continued to grow. In this article, let's explore the lives and careers of some of the world's best golfers, including the legendary Tiger Woods, and examine what makes them stand out in the sport.
1. Tiger Woods
Tiger Woods is widely considered one of the greatest golfers of all time, having won 82 PGA Tour events and 15 major championships. In 2013, Woods signed a new sponsorship deal with Nike, reportedly worth $200 million over five years, which was one of the all time biggest sponsorship deals in golf. This made him one of the highest-paid athletes in the world.2. Phil Mickelson
Another player who has had a remarkable career in golf is Phil Mickelson who has achieved numerous accolades and successes. He has won five major championships, including three Masters titles, and has a total of 45 PGA Tour wins. Known for his left-handed swing, Mickelson is also a fan favourite for his charismatic personality and engaging style of play.3. Arnold Palmer
Widely considered as one of the greatest golfers in history, Arnold Palmer won seven major championships and 62 PGA Tour events throughout his career. Born in Pennsylvania in 1929, Palmer started playing golf at a young age and went on to become a dominant force in the sport. Known as 'The King,' Palmer was a charismatic and engaging figure both on and off the course, and his fan base extended well beyond the world of golf.4. Jack Nicklaus
Jack Nicklaus is considered one of the top golfers of all time, with 18 major championships and 117 professional wins to his name. Known as the 'Golden Bear', Nicklaus was a dominant force in golf throughout the 1960s and 1970s, and his record of major victories has yet to be surpassed. Nicklaus has had many great accolades and feats over the years, including being known as a 73-time PGA Tour winner.5. Sam Snead
Sam Snead was one of the greatest golfers of his generation, with a career spanning over five decades. He won a total of 82 PGA Tour events, which is still the most of any golfer in history. Snead was known for his elegant swing and natural athleticism, which helped him remain competitive well into his 60s. He also had a reputation for being a skilled instructor, helping to train a new generation of golfers.6. Ben Hogan
One great accomplished golfer of the mid-20th century is Ben Hogan as he has won nine major championships and 64 PGA Tour events. He was known for his precision ball-striking and his intense work ethic, often practising for hours on end to perfect his technique. Hogan is also noted for his comeback from a near-fatal car accident in 1949, which left him with severe injuries that threatened to end his career. But went on to win six of his nine major championships after the accident.7. Bobby Jones
Bobby Jones was a legendary golfer who achieved incredible success in the 1920s and 1930s. He won a total of 13 major championships, including the coveted Grand Slam in 1930, when he won the U.S. Amateur, the British Amateur, the U.S. Open, and the British Open in the same year. Bobby Jones is not only one of the best golfers in history, but also founded the Augusta National Golf Club and co-founded the Masters tournament.8. Tom Watson
Tom Watson is a former professional golfer who was active from the 1970s through the early 2000s. He won a total of eight major championships, including five British Opens and two Masters Tournaments. Watson was known for his accuracy and consistency on the course, as well as his mental toughness and competitive spirit. He continued to play at a high level well into his 50s, and his victory at the 2009 Senior PGA Championship is a testament to his enduring skill and dedication to the game.9. Gary Player
Retired South African golfer, Gary Player, is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. Player won a total of nine major championships, including three Masters Tournaments, three British Opens, and two PGA Championships. He was known for his athleticism and his dedication to fitness and healthy living, which helped him remain competitive for a long time.10. Gene Sarazen
Gene Sarazen was a legendary golfer who achieved significant success in the 1920s and 1930s. He won a total of seven major championships, including the U.S. Open, the PGA Championship, and the British Open. Sarazen is perhaps best known for his 'shot 'heard round the world' at the 1935 Masters Tournament, where he hit a double eagle on the 15th hole to secure victory.
