After Posing Years of Threat to Jack Nicklaus, 6x Major Champion Had High Praises for the Legendary Golfer in 2013

Lee Trevino is regarded as one of the greatest golfers of all time. Even after being a contemporary of the legendary Jack Nicklaus, Trevino successfully cemented his name in the history of golf. Throughout his golf journey, the man registered himself for six Majors and 29 PGA Tour events. Back in 2013, during an interview with ESPN, Lee joyfully reminisced about his time with Jack. Despite fierce competition, Lee’s admiration for Jack did not affect their friendship which endured the test of time.

The six-times Majors champion has often referred to himself as an “underdog,” but competing with Jack re-energized his inner bulldog. In his telephone interview, Lee opened up about how Jack has played a major role in shaping him into a better player, “a player” that he is known for today. The Golden Bear advised many professionals on how to be the best.

Lee Trevino on how Jack Nicklaus helped him in becoming a better player

Back in 2013, the 83-year-old golf legend opened up about his contemporary, Jack Nicklaus. According to an article of ESPN, Lee said, “My whole thing was the underdog. I absolutely loved it. I dwelled on it.” But it wasn’t the same when he faced 18-time Major champion, Jack Nicklaus. Lee said, “Any time I got locked up with Jack, I would fare pretty good. I think it was because of the bulldog in me. That’s the only reason.”

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Lee has always looked up to Jack as the more talented and skilled player. He said, “There’s no question in my mind that I was not nearly as talented as Jack. Nobody would dispute that fact.” He knew that Jack was a way better driver of the ball than him; the only edge he thought he had was in the wedge department. He said, “…I damn sure couldn’t putt like that. But I was a hell of a wedge player.” Lee further talked about his temper issues, which cost him a couple of tournaments.

But that was not the case when he shared the course with Jack. He said, “Not with Jack. I actually laced up my shoes a little tighter, took the belt in one more hole.” But he felt that was not only the case with him but with every other golfer during their era. If Lee was to be believed, then Jack had that impact on everyone present on the course with him. He considered himself lucky to be able to stay with him and said, “I happened to be one of the guys who could drive it straighter than most. That was one reason I could stay with him.” He gave the credit of his success to being around Jack, it got the best out of him.

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