Spending so much time apart from their families makes athletes appreciate them more. The golf legend, Jack Nicklaus, too, has a great appreciation for his family. His parenting strategy taught his children a lot, especially his firstborn, Jack Nicklaus Jr. In his book, ‘Best Seat in the House,’ the legend’s son spoke about the lesson he learned from his father that made him a better parent.
Nicklaus has a huge family, with five children and 22 grandchildren. The 18-time major-league winner has undoubtedly touched the lives of his kids. and certainly hopes to continue doing so for as long as he can.
Jack Nicklaus eagerly hears out his son
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In his book, Nicklaus Jr. narrates an incident that changed his whole view on life. He credits this incident with helping him understand his father’s parenting values, which he now uses with his own children. Jack Jr. said that even when his father was at the peak of his career, he always gave his kids the most attention.
He recalls a time when he was playing in a junior golf tournament. The avid golfer had just graduated from high school and was playing golf for the University of North Carolina. During one such tournament, he got a call from his father, the 73-time PGA Tour winner.
His father asked him how he had played, and Nicklaus Jr. went on to describe all his plays in detail. Soon after the golf legend offered him advice about the issues he was facing on the course, he assured him that they would work on his chipping, where he was having trouble. He was completely invested in his son’s talks and very interested in everything he said.
Nicklaus modestly teaches his son parenting values
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Soon after Jr. had said everything and was about to bid his father farewell, Nicklaus said, “Jackie, would you like to know how your dad did today?” Flushed with embarrassment, his son responded, “Well, yes, how did you do today?” “Well,” said the golf great, “I just won the U.S. Open.”
In that instant, Jr. realized how much his father truly cared. Even though he was sitting on such important news, he prioritized his son. Niklaus Jr. claimed that that incident turned his life around. It taught him an important lesson in parenting and putting children before yourself.
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Watch This Story – ‘Leave It at That’: Golf Legend Jack Nicklaus Revealed Why Greg Norman Wont Look at Him ‘Eye-To-Eye’ Despite Their Longtime Friendship
Do you agree with Nicklaus’ parenting lesson? Or would you have done something differently? Let us know in the comments below.