Ranking the top 10 golfers of all time is subjective and can vary depending on different criteria such as major championships won, total PGA Tour wins, longevity, impact on the game, and more. However, here’s a list that many would consider:
- Jack Nicklaus: Nicklaus has won a record 18 major championships, including six Masters titles, five PGA Championships, four U.S. Opens, and three British Opens. He held the record for most major wins for decades and is widely regarded as the greatest golfer of all time.
- Tiger Woods: Woods is one of the most dominant players in golf history, with 15 major championships to his name, including five Masters titles, four PGA Championships, three U.S. Opens, and three British Opens. He revolutionized the game in terms of athleticism, power, and mental approach.
- Bobby Jones: Although his career was relatively short compared to modern players due to amateur status and health issues, Jones won 13 major championships, including four U.S. Opens, three British Opens, five U.S. Amateurs, and one British Amateur. He is the only player to win all four major championships in the same year (the Grand Slam).
- Ben Hogan: Hogan won nine major championships, including four U.S. Opens, two Masters titles, and one each of the British Open and PGA Championship. He is known for his precise ball-striking and his remarkable comeback after a near-fatal car accident.
- Arnold Palmer: Palmer won seven major championships, including four Masters titles, two British Opens, and one U.S. Open. He played a significant role in popularizing golf and is credited with bringing the game to a wider audience.
- Gary Player: Player won nine major championships, including three Masters titles, three British Opens, and two PGA Championships, and one U.S. Open. He is one of only five players to have won golf’s career Grand Slam.
- Sam Snead: Snead won a total of 82 PGA Tour events, including seven major championships. He holds the record for most PGA Tour wins and was known for his remarkable longevity in the sport.
- Tom Watson: Watson won eight major championships, including five British Opens, two Masters titles, and one U.S. Open. He had a fierce competitive spirit and was known for his clutch putting.
- Walter Hagen: Hagen won a total of 11 major championships, including five PGA Championships, four British Opens, and two U.S. Opens. He was one of the first truly dominant players in professional golf.
- Seve Ballesteros: Ballesteros won five major championships, including three British Opens and two Masters titles. He was known for his creative shot-making and his charismatic personality.
This list represents a blend of players from different eras who have left a lasting impact on the game of golf.