Jack Nicklaus’s 85th Birthday: ‘Golden Bear’s’ 5 Most Memorable Moments, Revisited

Tomorrow, January 21st will mark a special day for golf’s greatest legend, Jack Nicklaus. But why? Well, as many of you might already know the amazing golfer is celebrating another year of life tomorrow as he turns 85 this year. Born on January 21, 1940, in Columbus, Ohio, Nicklaus is widely regarded as one of the greatest golfers of all time. With an impressive record of 18 major golf championships, including victories at the U.S. Open, Masters, and PGA Championship, his achievements on the course are simply remarkable. Nicknamed “The Golden Bear”, a moniker given to him in 1961 by an Australian sportswriter shortly after he turned professional, Nicklaus’s legacy continues to inspire golfers and fans around the world.

As the golf world prepares to celebrate a milestone birthday, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the extraordinary career of the one and only Jack Nicklaus.

Jack Nicklaus’s 1977 Memorial Tournament win

The 1977 Memorial Tournament was a moment of unbridled joy and relief for Jack Nicklaus, as he stood on the precipice of victory at his own event with 281 as his score. Overcome with emotion, the Golden Bear was on the verge of making a shocking announcement which was that he was retiring from the sport he loved. Thankfully, his wise and compassionate wife, Barbara, was by his side to offer words of calm and persuasion, convincing him to reconsider such a rash decision. As Nicklaus would later reflect in his autobiography, My Story, this win was a deeply personal and meaningful one, confessing that “never in all my years of wanting to succeed at golf had I ached so badly to win,” and revealing the depth of his passion and dedication to the sport.

Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus’s duel at the 1977 British Open

One of the most iconic moments in golf history unfolded on July 9, 1977, at the British Open, where Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson engaged in an unforgettable battle known as the ‘Duel in the Sun.’ Paired together for the final two days at Turnberry, the two golfing giants turned the tournament into a thrilling two-man competition, leaving their nearest rival, Hubert Green, a staggering 10 strokes behind. In a heart-stopping finale, Nicklaus trailed Watson by one stroke on the last hole, but he refused to give up, hitting an incredible approach from under a bush and sinking a remarkable 35-foot putt to force Watson to make a short birdie putt to win. The enduring image of this epic duel, however, is not of the golf itself, but of the gracious sportsmanship displayed by both men as they walked off the 18th green together, arms around each other’s shoulders, in a moment of mutual respect and admiration.

Jack Nicklaus’s 1986 Masters victory

A moment that will forever be etched in golf history. Yeah, that seems like a fitting start to this memorable moment. At 46 years old, Jack Nicklaus silenced his critics and proved his doubters wrong with a remarkable win at the 1986 Masters. Despite being labeled “washed up” and playfully referred to as the “Olden Bear”, Nicklaus demonstrated his enduring talent and determination. With his mother, Helen, in attendance for the first time since his Masters debut in 1959, Nicklaus mounted an incredible comeback, shooting 30 on the final nine holes to secure his sixth green jacket.

This victory was especially sweet for Nicklaus, who described it as “the most fulfilling” win of his life.

Establishment of the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation

In 2004, the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation was established and we have to thank the vision and efforts of Barbara Nicklaus for that. The foundation’s mission is to support the medical needs of children in South Florida, and it has also been a long-time supporter of Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, the charitable beneficiary of the Memorial Tournament. Through its work, the foundation has made a significant impact and has raised over $100 million to date leading to the opening of the Nicklaus Children’s Hospital in Miami and 17 outpatient facilities across Florida. Jack Nicklaus’s involvement with the foundation has been a life-changing experience as he said, “It’s changed my life.” 

Jack Nicklaus’s emotional tribute at the 2000 Memorial Tournament

It was a moment that touched the heart of golf legend Jack Nicklaus – being honored by the Captains Club of Muirfield Village at the 2000 Memorial Tournament. As he stood on stage, surrounded by friends and fellow golfing greats Arnold Palmer and Gary Player, Nicklaus was deeply moved by the heartfelt tributes paid to him. “I created this animal, and now it has come back to me,” he said, his voice filled with emotion. As he tried to express his gratitude, Nicklaus’s voice trembled, and he barely held back tears. It was a rare glimpse of vulnerability from the Golden Bear and a reminder that even the greatest champions are not immune to the power of emotion. So, what is your favorite Jack Niklaus moment? Let us know in the comment section below!