When it comes to golf, there are good players, great players, and then there are legends.

But, it is impossible to compare legends like Jack Nicklaus to someone from a completely different era, like Old Tom Morris.

The game has changed so much over the years. But what hasn’t changed is the impact these players have had on golf.

In putting together this list of the top 10 greatest golfers of all time, we didn’t just look at who has the most wins or major titles.

We also considered those moments that made us all sit up and say, “Wow!”—the kind of moments that make these players legends.

So, without further ado, here are the 10 greatest golfers of all time, ranked.

1. Jack Nicklaus—The Golden Bear 

Jack Nicklaus, born in 1940 in Columbus, Ohio, is often called the best golfer ever. He’s famous not just for winning 18 major championships but also for changing the game of golf.

His first big win was the 1962 U.S. Open, where he beat Arnold Palmer in a playoff, starting a legendary rivalry.

Over his career, Jack Nicklaus earned his place among golf greats by winning six Masters, five PGA Championships, four U.S. Opens, and three British Opens—the only golfer to win each major at least three times.

Known for staying calm under pressure and playing smart, Nicklaus left a lasting legacy in the sport.

Even after he stopped competing full-time, he continued to shape the sport as a golf course designer and through his charity work, especially with the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation.

2. Tiger Woods—The Modern Icon 

Tiger Woods, born in 1975 in Cypress, California, undeniably changed golf with his incredible skills, power, and style. From the moment he went pro in 1996, he was a force to be reckoned with.

His first major win was at the 1997 Masters, where he won by a record 12 strokes, making a huge statement.

Over the next decade, Woods dominated golf, winning 15 major championships, including four Masters, three U.S. Opens, three British Opens, and four PGA Championships.

Throughout his career, Woods has experienced incredible highs and some tough lows. Despite serious injuries and personal challenges that knocked him off the top, he made an epic comeback by winning the 2019 Masters, his fifth and first in 14 years.

This win undoubtedly showed his resilience and love for the sport. Woods also brought a younger, more diverse crowd to golf, which helped the game grow worldwide.

So, it’s no surprise that Woods is considered one of the best golfers ever, with an impact on the sport that has transformed it.

3. Arnold Palmer—The King 

Arnold Palmer, born in 1929 in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, was a famous golfer who became much more than a great player—a cultural icon who helped make golf popular on TV.

Known for his charismatic personality and bold playing style, Palmer became one of the first golf superstars.

He won 62 PGA Tour titles, including four Masters, two British Opens, and one U.S. Open. His first major win was the 1958 Masters, a tournament he would dominate throughout his career.

Palmer’s charm went beyond golf. Notably, he made the sport more accessible, dispelling the idea that golf was just for the elite. His fans, known as “Arnie’s Army,” followed him passionately.

Off the course, Palmer was a successful businessman, helping to grow the sport through ventures like the Golf Channel and his golf equipment line. His influence on the business side of golf is still felt today, and his legacy as “The King” lives on.

4. Ben Hogan—The Hawk 

Ben Hogan, born in 1912 in Stephenville, Texas, is famous for his incredible dedication and near-perfect golf technique.

He’s often considered one of the best ball strikers in golf history. Hogan’s story is especially inspiring because he made a huge comeback after a near-fatal car accident in 1949.

Doctors weren’t sure he’d walk again, let alone play golf, but Hogan proved them wrong. Against all odds, he returned to the game and won six of his nine major championships after the accident.

Incredibly, Hogan won four U.S. Opens, two Masters, two PGA Championships, and one British Open. Remarkably, his win at the 1953 British Open is legendary because it was the only time he played in that event, which made his victory even more impressive.

Besides his wins, Hogan is known for his careful approach to the game, focusing a lot on practice and perfecting the golf swing.

His book, “Ben Hogan’s Five Lessons: The Modern Fundamentals of Golf,” is still a go-to for golfers. And the book shows his belief that you could perfect your swing through discipline and understanding.

5. Sam Snead—Slammin’ Sam 

Sam Snead, born in 1912 in Ashwood, Virginia, is one of golf’s all-time winningest players, holding a record 82 PGA Tour victories, a number only matched by Tiger Woods.

Snead’s swing is often cited as the smoothest and most natural in golf history, and many people have tried to copy it.

Despite all his wins, Snead never won the U.S. Open, finishing second four times, which earned him the title of maybe the greatest golfer never to win that tournament.

Snead had an incredibly long career, winning tournaments over nearly three decades. At 52, he was the oldest player to win a PGA Tour event.

In total, he won seven major championships, including three Masters, three PGA Championships, and one British Open.

His nickname, “Slammin’ Sam,” reflects how great he was on the course and how he stayed at the top level for many years.

6. Gary Player—The International Ambassador 

Gary Player, born in 1935 in Johannesburg, South Africa, is considered one of the most influential golfers to play the sport, especially for helping golf grow worldwide.

Known as the “Black Knight” because he always wore black, Player was the first non-American to win all four major championships, completing the career Grand Slam.

He won nine major titles: three Masters, three British Opens, two PGA Championships, and one U.S. Open.

Remarkably, Player was ahead of his time by focusing on physical fitness, including weight training and a strict diet, which wasn’t common in golf back then. His commitment to staying fit helped him compete at a high level even as he got older.

Beyond his playing career, Player has also made a significant contribution as a golf course designer, working on over 400 projects in 41 countries. Moreover, as a philanthropist, he has supported underprivileged kids through his foundation.

Amazingly, his work helped spread golf’s popularity, especially in Africa and Asia, making him one of the best golfers ever and a global ambassador for the sport.

7. Tom Watson—The Open Champion 

Tom Watson, born in 1949 in Kansas City, Missouri, is famous for being a master at links golf, especially at the British Open, where he won five times (in 1975, 1977, 1980, 1982, and 1983). Only Harry Vardon has won it more times, with six wins.

Watson has won eight major championships, including two Masters and one U.S. Open. His 1977 British Open win, known as the “Duel in the Sun” against Jack Nicklaus at Turnberry, is one of the most famous moments in golf.

Watson was a top player in the 1970s and 1980s, but what’s impressive is how long he stayed competitive.

In 2009, at 59 years old, he almost won his sixth British Open but lost in a playoff to Stewart Cink. More than 30 years after his first major win, this fantastic performance shows just how skilled and competitive he remained.

Watson is also known for his sportsmanship and the respect he earned from other players and fans.

8. Bobby Jones—The Amateur Legend 

Bobby Jones, born in 1902 in Atlanta, Georgia, was a golf genius who became a legend despite never becoming a professional.

He’s best known for an incredible achievement in 1930 when he won all four major golf tournaments in one year: the U.S. Open, the British Open, the U.S. Amateur, and the British Amateur.

This accomplishment, called the Grand Slam, has never been matched and secured his place as one of the greatest golfers ever.

Surprisingly, Jones retired from competitive golf at just 28 to focus on his career as a lawyer and other interests.

However, his influence on the game continued, primarily through co-founding the Masters Tournament and designing Augusta National Golf Club, where the Masters is held annually.

Aside from his incredible skill, Jones earned a reputation for his sportsmanship. In fact, he was widely respected as a true gentleman of the game, and it set a high standard that future golfers would look up to.

9. Walter Hagen—The Showman

Walter Hagen, born in 1892 in Rochester, New York, was among the first big stars in professional golf.

He won 11 major championships, a record that stood for a long time and is still the third-highest ever. His wins include four British Opens, two U.S. Opens, and five PGA Championships.

Hagen wasn’t only known for his success on the course—he was also famous for his flashy style and charisma, which helped make professional golfers more popular with the public.

Hagen’s impact on golf went far beyond his tournament victories. He was instrumental in raising the status and earnings of professional golfers, who were often seen as second-class citizens in the early 20th century.

Determined to change this, Hagen made sure professionals got the same respect as amateurs, even renting limousines to show up at clubhouses that didn’t allow pros inside. As a result, his efforts helped future golfers gain more recognition and better financial rewards.

10 Phil Mickelson—The People’s Champion 

Phil Mickelson, born in 1970 in San Diego, California, is one of the most popular and successful golf legends of modern times.

Known as “Lefty” because he swings left-handed (even though he’s right-handed in most other things), Mickelson has won 45 PGA Tour events, including six major championships.

And these include three Masters, two PGA Championships, and one Open Championship.

Mickelson is famous for his daring playing style and amazing short game, especially his ability to pull off creative shots from tough spots. His rivalry with Tiger Woods was a big part of golf in the 2000s.

Although he was often seen as the underdog, his determination and exciting play won him many fans.

In 2021, Mickelson made history by becoming the oldest major champion at 50 when he won the PGA Championship, cementing his place as one of golf’s all-time greats.

Who’s Your Pick for the Greatest Golfer of All Time?

So, there you have it—the top 10 golfers who have genuinely earned their spots in the history books. These players dominated, inspired, and left a lasting legacy on the sport we love.

So, who’s your pick for the greatest of all time? Do you think someone else deserves to be on this list?

But golf is constantly evolving, and new talents are always emerging. Who knows? The next Tiger or Jack could be out there right now, learning the ropes and dreaming of their first major win.

The history of golf is still being written, and it’s exciting to think about who might join these legends in the future.

Check out their iconic moments, watch some classic tournaments, or even get out on the course yourself!

And if you’re interested in other sports legends, don’t miss our article on the top 12 swimming legends in history.

The Minnesota Vikings’ 2024 season took a blow when their rookie quarterback, J.J. McCarthy, suffered a season-ending knee injury during the preseason opener against the Raiders.

McCarthy, who was picked 10th overall in the draft, was supposed to lead the offense this year. But with his torn meniscus, he’s out for the season, so the Vikings are forced to shift gears.

Now, veteran QB Sam Darnold is stepping up to fill McCarthy’s shoes, and the team has also brought in Matt Corral—a quarterback with a rocky but hopeful career path.

Sam Darnold Takes Over for McCarthy

Sam Darnold, who was originally set to start the season before handing the reins to McCarthy, now finds himself as the team’s starting quarterback for the entire year.

It’s clear that the Vikings are counting on Darnold, who has been through his share of ups and downs in the NFL.

With experience from his time with the Jets and Panthers, Darnold brings a wealth of experience to the team that the Vikings need to navigate this unexpected challenge.

In addition, Veteran linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel expressed his confidence in Darnold’s ability to lead the Vikings’ offense.

He said, “He’s got a lot more playmakers now than he did with the Jets. You can tell he’s a vet. He’s been in this league for a while. He understands who he is, how he can manipulate defenses or get the ball to his playmakers in space.”

Despite the disappointment surrounding McCarthy’s injury, the team believes Darnold can successfully guide them through the season.

Matt Corral’s Unexpected Opportunity

In a surprising move, the Vikings signed Matt Corral to add depth to their quarterback lineup. Corral’s career has been a rollercoaster, not unlike some NFL legends who had to fight their way up.

Recently, Corral led the Birmingham Stallions to their third consecutive UFL title, which proves he can perform when it counts.

Corral’s resolve has been evident since his college days at Ole Miss, where he set multiple records before a leg injury cut his final season short.

Even with a strong collegiate performance, Corral wasn’t drafted until the third round by the Carolina Panthers in 2022.

Unfortunately, his rookie NFL season ended prematurely due to another injury, leading to a brief hiatus from football before joining the UFL.

However, his perseverance has now led him to an opportunity with the Vikings, where he will compete for the No. 3 quarterback position.

Stallions coach Skip Holtz praised Corral’s determination, saying, “Matt is a very talented individual, but more than anything, today is an unbelievable lesson in resolve… It would have been real easy for him to hang his head, sulk, pout, and yet, he’s been completely in it and ready for his opportunity.”

Without a doubt, this kind of attitude will be essential for Corral as he tries to make his mark in Minnesota.

What’s Next for the Vikings’ QB Situation?

With McCarthy out, the Vikings’ quarterback room now consists of Sam Darnold as the starter, Nick Mullens, Jaren Hall, and the newly signed Matt Corral.

While the chances of Corral starting a game for the Vikings might be slim, history has shown that unexpected turns can lead to remarkable outcomes—just as it did for Kurt Warner and the 1999 Rams.

Sam Darnold’s one-year contract is worth $4.5 million, which shows the Vikings are cautiously optimistic about his potential. Nonetheless, the contract does include incentives that could bump up his pay if he performs well.

On top of that, this setup gives the Vikings some flexibility while giving Darnold a chance to prove himself as a solid leader.

As the Vikings adjust to this curveball, they’re banking on Darnold’s experience and Corral’s toughness to keep their season on track.

Though McCarthy’s injury is a big blow, the Vikings could still make the most of the season with the right moves.

Paul Blackburn might not have been a household name when he joined the Mets, but he’s wasting no time making a difference.

Since he arrived from the A’s, Blackburn has stepped up in a big way, showcasing a killer curveball that’s brought much-needed stability to the Mets’ pitching rotation.

As the team battles for a playoff spot, Blackburn’s standout performances couldn’t have come at a better time, which proves he’s exactly what the Mets needed to keep their postseason hopes alive.

Paul Blackburn’s Role in Mets’ Rotation

Paul Blackburn, a right-handed pitcher the Mets picked up from the Oakland A’s at the trade deadline, has quickly become an important part of the team.

After a rough start, Blackburn bounced back with a strong performance against the Miami Marlins, where he gave up just one earned run over six innings.

Even though the Mets lost 3-2, Blackburn’s control on the mound, especially with his curveball, shows how valuable he can be.

Blackburn’s Curveball and Early Struggles

In his first game with the Mets, Blackburn had to figure out a game plan with catcher Luis Torrens, who had never caught for him before.

Blackburn knew his curveball worked well in warm-ups, so he leaned on it during the game. And did this strategy work – he struck out four batters and only allowed four hits over 92 pitches.

Not every game has been perfect for Blackburn, though. He struggled in his start against the A’s, giving up six earned runs in just four innings.

But in three out of his four starts with the Mets, he’s gone six innings and given up just one earned run each time. This shows he has the potential to be a dependable pitcher.

As the Mets continue to chase a wild-card spot in the National League, they’re counting on Blackburn to keep up his good form.

With Blackburn joining a rotation that includes Luis Severino, Jose Quintana, Sean Manaea, and David Peterson, the Mets have added some much-needed depth to their pitching staff at a crucial time.

Changes in the Mets’ Lineup and Strategy

While Blackburn continues to find his rhythm, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza has made smart changes to the lineup. Starling Marte, who just returned from an injury, was eased back into the game.

Marte, who hadn’t played since June 22 because of a bone bruise in his knee, started in right field but was taken out before the seventh inning. So, it’s clear that Mendoza is being cautious with Marte’s playing time.

Marte’s return adds depth to the Mets’ outfield, especially with the recent addition of Jesse Winker.

Despite the lineup changes, Marte remains confident and ready to play aggressively, saying, “There are no restrictions for me.”

After these adjustments, the team moved Ben Gamel off the roster to accommodate Marte – such a move shows their commitment to fine-tuning the lineup for a strong playoff push.

Blackburn’s Playoff Hopes and Future Outlook

Paul Blackburn’s journey with the Mets is just starting, but he’s already made a strong impression in his first few games.

Blackburn is excited about being in a playoff race, as it’s something he hasn’t experienced before. “I have never really gotten a taste of a playoff race, and it’s something I have always looked forward to,” Blackburn said about moving from Oakland to New York.

As the Mets make their push for the playoffs, Blackburn’s role in the rotation will be a big deal. If he can keep delivering solid starts and adjust to the challenges ahead, he could play a big part in whether the Mets make it to the postseason.

With his contract running through 2025, Blackburn has the chance to establish himself as a steady presence in the Mets’ rotation – he looks to bring experience and reliability as the team aims for a playoff spot.

The New York Knicks are gearing up for the 2024-25 NBA season, but before we get too excited, there are some critical updates on the team’s key players.

With Julius Randle, Mitchell Robinson, and Jalen Brunson all coming back from surgeries, their health will be a big factor in how the Knicks start off this year.

Here’s the scoop on their recoveries and what it could mean for the Knicks as they hit the court this year.

Julius Randle’s Recovery and Season Opener Possibility

Julius Randle, an important player for the Knicks, underwent surgery in April to repair his right shoulder injury.

According to reports from Ian Begley of SNY, Randle’s rehab has been progressing well, but he is not expected to be ready to start training camp.

The Knicks have set a re-evaluation date for September. While Randle is unlikely to participate in the preseason’s early stages, he could return by the season opener on October 22 against the Boston Celtics or shortly after that.

Randle’s absence was keenly felt last season, even though the Knicks put on an impressive show and nearly made it to the Eastern Conference Finals without him.

Understandably, his scoring and presence on the court were notably missed, especially as injuries piled up for New York.

The camp has renewed optimism with the latest news of the Knick’s injury suggesting he might return soon. Having Randle back, even if a bit later than hoped, could be what the team needs for a solid start to the new season.

Mitchell Robinson’s Slow Recovery and Its Impact on Knicks’ Center Depth

Mitchell Robinson’s situation is more concerning. After undergoing surgery in mid-May to repair a stress injury to his left ankle, Robinson’s recovery has been slower than expected.

According to Begley, Robinson still needs to be cleared for high-intensity weight-bearing activities, so he still faces several hurdles before being fully cleared for practice.

Robinson’s situation is even more important because Isaiah Hartenstein, who provided good backup at the center position, left the team.

If Robinson isn’t ready, the Knicks might have to rely on newly re-signed Precious Achiuwa and Jericho Sims to fill in. But this isn’t ideal for a team hoping to compete at the highest level.

So, if Robinson isn’t back by the start of the season, it could spell trouble for the Knicks’ defense and rebounding, areas where Robinson has been a key contributor.

Of course, Robinson’s health and ability to get back in form will be essential for the Knicks as they start the season.

Jalen Brunson’s Leadership and Full Return to Training Camp

On a more positive note, Jalen Brunson, who suffered a broken hand in the Indiana Pacers’ Game 7 loss, is expected to participate fully in training camp.

Brunson’s injury was a tough way to end last season, but his recovery has gone well. During a recent press conference where he was named captain of the Knicks, Brunson confidently said he’s “good to go” for the upcoming season.

Brunson’s role as the Knicks’ centerpiece cannot be overstated. Last season, his performance established him as one of the league’s top players and showed how vital his leadership will be. As the Knicks aim for a deep playoff run, his guidance will be crucial.

With Brunson healthy and ready to lead, the Knicks have a solid foundation to build.

Will the Knicks Have a Slow Start to the 2024-25 Season?

Considering the updates on Randle and Robinson, there’s a genuine concern that the Knicks might have a slow start to the 2024-25 season. Randle might start late, and Robinson’s uncertain timeline could leave the Knicks without enough depth at key positions.

Even if Randle plays in the season opener, he might need time to get back into rhythm, similar to last season when he struggled early on after ankle surgery.

Robinson’s situation is even more precarious. If he cannot play at the beginning of the season, the Knicks will be forced to lean on Achiuwa and Sims, which may not be sufficient against top-tier competition.

Also, the team must integrate Mikal Bridges, acquired in a blockbuster trade, into the lineup, which could further complicate their early-season chemistry.

However, Knicks fans shouldn’t panic if the team starts a bit slow. The first few weeks won’t define the whole season, and the Knicks have shown in the past that they can bounce back.

With a deep roster and strong leadership, the Knicks have what it takes to recover quickly and compete at a high level throughout the season.

So, stay updated with the latest Knicks news to see how the team navigates these early challenges.

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) might seem like a modern sport, but its roots go back thousands of years to ancient Greece.

Pankration is one of ancient Greece’s oldest and most intense combat sports. Back in the day, this was for survival and showing off pure strength and skill.

The Greeks took it so seriously that they even included it in the ancient Greek Olympics, where it quickly became one of the most popular events.

This guide will explain Pankration’s history, rules, and lasting impact and show how it connects to MMA as we know it today.

What is Pankration? The Origins of the Greek Sport

The name “Pankration” comes from two Greek words: “pan,” meaning “all,” and “kratos,” meaning “power.” This name fits the sport well because Pankration was about using all your strength and skills in a fight.

According to Greek myths, heroes like Hercules and Theseus created Pankration. While it’s hard to separate fact from fiction, we know that Pankration was introduced to the Olympic Games in 648 BC and likely been around for centuries before that.

Historically, pankration was a sport and a part of military training, especially for Spartan warriors and the Macedonian army under Alexander the Great.

The Greek martial art was designed to prepare warriors for the brutal realities of battle, where weapons could fail, and survival depended on one’s ability to fight with bare hands and feet. This made Pankration a practical and essential skill for survival in ancient Greece.

Nonetheless, the sport eventually died out after being banned in 393 AD by a Christian emperor who wanted to eradicate pagan practices.

But it was brought back to life in the 20th century by a Greek-American martial artist named Jim Arvanitis, who helped make it popular again and eventually influenced modern MMA.

Who Were the Pankratiasts?

Pankratiasts, the athletes who practiced Pankration, were more than just competitors; they were warriors.

Pankration was a part of a Greek soldier’s training, especially for the hoplites, heavy foot soldiers. The wrestling techniques in Pankration helped soldiers stay balanced and quickly get back on their feet during battles, which could be a matter of life or death.

Over time, some Pankratiasts became legendary figures. For example, Polydamas was an Olympic champion known for his incredible strength.

Legends say he once defeated three Persian warriors using only a stick. Whether entirely true or not, these stories show how Pankration athletes were admired for their strength and courage.

The Harsh Rules of Pankration

Pankration had two types: ano pankration, where fighters stayed on their feet, and kato pankration, where they could fight on the ground. The sport had only two main rules: no biting and no eye-gouging.

Besides that, almost anything was allowed, including strikes and submissions that could seriously injure or even kill an opponent.

Pankratiasts fought naked and covered in oil inside a wrestling pit. There were no rounds or time limits—the fight ended only when one competitor surrendered, was knocked out, or died.

Without modern safety measures, it was not uncommon for fighters to die from strangulation or other submission moves. Competitors could signal defeat by raising their arms or tapping out, much like today’s MMA.

Despite its brutality, Pankration was highly respected in ancient Greece. It was a test of endurance, skill, and mental toughness, with many fighters choosing death over the shame of surrender.

Pankration Fighting in the Olympic Games and Other Competitions

Pankration was a major event in the Pan-Hellenic games, including the Olympics. The Spartans, known for their military discipline, usually did not participate in Pankration or boxing but focused on wrestling.

Pankratiasts competed in single-elimination tournaments, representing their city-states. The tournaments could have at least four rounds, with the winner becoming a hero in their homeland.

Victors in Pankration tournaments were celebrated as heroes, receiving rewards and widespread recognition.

Their names were inscribed on the Olympic victor lists, and they were awarded various prizes, the most famous of which was the olive wreath.

These champions embodied the Greek ideals of physical and mental excellence, and their achievements were immortalized in history.

The Decline of Pankration

The natural end of Pankration came in 393 AD when the Roman Emperor Theodosius I banned all pagan festivals, including the Olympics, as part of a push to spread Christianity across the empire.

This ban led to the end of many traditional practices, including Pankration. Even though it was officially outlawed, there’s evidence that Pankration continued secretly in some places until the sixth century. But over time, it gradually disappeared from public life.

Even after Pankration stopped being practiced openly, its influence did the opposite of vanish. The techniques and ideas of Pankration spread around the ancient world, especially through Alexander the Great’s conquests, who recruited the best Pankratiasts into his army.

As Alexander’s empire stretched into Asia, it’s believed that elements of Pankration helped shape various Eastern martial arts, like kung fu and jiu-jitsu.

The Lasting Legacy of Pankration

Pankration’s legacy is evident in today’s mixed martial arts (MMA). The way Pankration combines striking and grappling is very similar to MMA. Since fighters are trained in multiple styles, they must be proficient in standing up and on the ground.

The idea of a no-holds-barred fight, central to Pankration, also appeared in the early days of MMA, when there were very few rules.

Pankration’s influence goes beyond just the fighting techniques; it’s also about the spirit of the sport. The focus on adaptability, handling tough situations, and staying strong in any fight still resonates with athletes today.

As the first known mixed martial art, Pankration set the stage for modern MMA’s diverse and exciting world, showing its strong and long-lasting legacy.