In the world of golf, major victories are the ultimate measure of greatness. These four prestigious tournaments have long defined the careers of the sport’s most iconic players, marking a clear before and after in their legacies.
Over the years, a select few have amassed an impressive collection of major titles, cementing their place in history. These golfers not only excel in skill but also in the mental fortitude required to conquer the biggest stages.
Records are broken and new legends rise, but the heritage of those with the most majors continues to shine. From dominant performances to epic rivalries, their journey through golf’s most respected events is nothing short of legendary.
1. Jack Nicklaus — 18 majors
Masters (6), U.S. Open (4), Open Championship (3), PGA Championship (5)
Jack Nicklaus is widely considered the greatest golfer of all time thanks to his unmatched record of 18 major championships, a benchmark that has withstood decades of challengers. He combined impressive power with a brilliant strategic mind, displaying astonishing control under pressure, especially at Augusta National, where he won six times.
Beyond his titles, he left his mark through his longevity and consistency: between 1960 and 1986, he was in contention at nearly every major. He was also a gentleman both on and off the course, making him a global ambassador for the game. His duel with Tom Watson at the 1977 Open Championship remains one of the sport’s most legendary moments.
2. Tiger Woods — 15 majors
Masters (5), U.S. Open (3), Open Championship (3), PGA Championship (4)
Tiger Woods revolutionized golf with his talent, intensity, and charisma, drawing audiences that had never before paid attention to the sport. From his historic victory at the 1997 Masters at just 21 years old to his unforgettable comeback in 2019, he proved to be a once-in-a-lifetime talent. His ability to intimidate rivals and pull off impossible shots made him a global sports icon.
Beyond the trophies, he transformed the golf industry: he raised prize purses, multiplied endorsement deals, and popularized fitness training in the sport. Despite injuries and personal setbacks that slowed his career, his impact is incalculable. Many of today’s young professionals grew up dreaming of becoming the next Tiger.
3. Walter Hagen — 11 majors
U.S. Open (2), Open Championship (4), PGA Championship (5)
Walter Hagen was golf’s first superstar in a time when amateurs like Bobby Jones dominated the stage. Charismatic, stylish and supremely confident, he helped elevate the status of professional golfers, who were previously seen as mere club employees. He won 11 majors between 1914 and 1929, highlighted by his dominance at the PGA Championship.
Beyond his victories, he was a showman who enjoyed life off the course as much as on it. It’s famously said that he never carried his own bag because “I’m here to show class, not carry clubs”. His influence turned golf into entertainment and paved the way for future media stars.
4. Ben Hogan — 9 majors
Masters (2), U.S. Open (4), Open Championship (1), PGA Championship (2)
Ben Hogan is remembered for his incredible discipline and technical perfection. Known for his legendary swing, he studied every aspect of the game until it became an art form. His life story is one of resilience: after surviving a near-fatal car accident in 1949, he returned to golf and won six of his nine majors post-accident, cementing his status as a legend.
He was also famous for his mysterious aura. Reserved and almost inaccessible to the media, he let his golf speak for him. To this day, his legacy is revered by players and coaches, and his book Five Lessons: The Modern Fundamentals of Golf remains a golf bible.
5. Gary Player — 9 majors
Masters (3), U.S. Open (1), Open Championship (3), PGA Championship (2)
Gary Player is one of the most successful and influential golfers outside the United States. Nicknamed “The Black Knight”, the South African won majors across four decades and became a global ambassador for golf. His relentless work ethic, devotion to fitness, and competitive spirit led him to nine major titles between 1959 and 1978.
He is also remembered for his off-course impact: he helped globalize golf, bringing it to South Africa, Asia and Latin America. A committed philanthropist, he’s known for championing social and youth causes. His legacy lives on as a symbol of longevity and passion for the game.
6. Tom Watson — 8 majors
Masters (2), U.S. Open (1), Open Championship (5)
Tom Watson shined especially at The Open Championship, where he won five times under often brutal conditions, showcasing his mastery of links golf. Between 1975 and 1983, he was the dominant force in the majors, displaying nerve, consistency, and an uncanny ability to win on the toughest stages.
He is also remembered for his iconic duels with Jack Nicklaus, especially the “Duel in the Sun” at Turnberry in 1977, considered one of golf’s greatest showdowns. Even in his later years, he nearly won the 2009 Open at age 59, cementing his reputation as one of the sport’s most beloved and respected figures.
7. Harry Vardon — 7 majors
U.S. Open (1), Open Championship (6)
Harry Vardon was a pivotal figure in popularizing golf in the early 20th century. With six Open Championships (still a record) and one U.S. Open, he became the first truly international golfer, competing across Europe and America. His famous “Vardon Grip” is still used by the majority of modern players.
His influence transcended his era, helping establish golf as a professional sport. He was known for his precision and elegance, and his exhibition tours in the U.S. helped ignite American interest in golf.
8. Bobby Jones — 7 majors
U.S. Open (4), Open Championship (3) (amateur era; modern classifications differ)
Bobby Jones was a legendary amateur, arguably the greatest non-professional golfer in history. He completed the original Grand Slam in 1930—winning the U.S. Open, Open Championship, U.S. Amateur and British Amateur in the same year—before retiring at age 28. As founder of the Masters and co-designer of Augusta National, his influence on American golf is immense.
He embodied sportsmanship, integrity, and excellence. An engineer and lawyer by profession, he refused to turn professional, playing purely for the love of the game. His early retirement only added to his mythic status, leaving him as golf’s romantic hero.
9. Gene Sarazen — 7 majors
Masters (1), U.S. Open (2), Open Championship (1), PGA Championship (3)
Gene Sarazen was among the first to achieve the “Career Grand Slam”, winning all four majors at least once. He’s famous for the “shot heard ’round the world” at the 1935 Masters, when he holed a double eagle from 235 yards, helping elevate the Masters to major status.
Beyond his talent, he was an innovator: he’s credited with inventing the modern sand wedge, an essential club in today’s game. His longevity was also remarkable, as he continued competing alongside younger champions for decades.
10. Sam Snead — 7 majors
Masters (3), U.S. Open (0), Open Championship (1), PGA Championship (3)
Sam Snead holds the record for most PGA Tour wins (82), though the U.S. Open famously eluded him, with four runner-up finishes. Known for his smooth, almost perfect swing, he remained at the top of the game across multiple decades, winning majors from the 1940s into the 1950s.
He was also beloved for his charisma and humor. Having played barefoot as a child, he maintained a relaxed, folksy style that endeared him to fans. His longevity and popularity made him one of golf’s most enduring figures.
| Ranking | Player | Major wins |
| 11 | Arnold Palmer | 7 |
| 12 | Lee Trevino | 6 |
| 13 | Nick Faldo | 6 |
| 14 | Phil Mickelson | 6 |
| 15 | Rory McIlroy | 6 |
| 16 | James Braid | 5 |
| 17 | John Henry Taylor | 5 |
| 18 | Byron Nelson | 5 |
| 19 | Peter Thomson | 5 |
| 20 | Seve Ballesteros | 5 |
| 21 | Brooks Koepka | 5 |
| 22 | Tom Morris Sr. | 4 |
| 23 | Tom Morris Jr. | 4 |
| 24 | Willie Park Sr. | 4 |
| 25 | Willie Anderson | 4 |
| 26 | Jim Barnes | 4 |
| 27 | Bobby Locke | 4 |
| 28 | Raymond Floyd | 4 |
| 29 | Ernie Els | 4 |
| 30 | James Anderson | 3 |
| 31 | Bob Ferguson | 3 |
| 32 | Tommy Armour | 3 |
| 33 | Denny Shute | 3 |
| 34 | Ralph Guldahl | 3 |
| 35 | Henry Cotton | 3 |
| 36 | Jimmy Demaret | 3 |
| 37 | Cary Middlecoff | 3 |
| 38 | Julius Boros | 3 |
| 39 | Billy Casper | 3 |
| 40 | Larry Nelson | 3 |
Which countries have produced the most major golf champions?
When it comes to major golf championships, the United States stands unrivaled at the top, with over 280 major titles won by its players. Golf legends like Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, Ben Hogan and Walter Hagen have set a standard that few nations can touch.
The strength of the American golf system — with its deep amateur circuits, elite college programs, and the powerful PGA Tour — has ensured that the U.S. not only leads historically but continues to shape the future, producing stars like Scottie Scheffler, Collin Morikawa and Jordan Spieth.
The United Kingdom, with more than 60 major titles, holds a distinguished place thanks to its deep-rooted golfing tradition. Scotland, as the birthplace of the game, and England have given the world players like Harry Vardon and Nick Faldo.
Northern Ireland has added fresh energy in recent decades, with Rory McIlroy capturing four majors and elevating the UK’s global golf reputation. The Open Championship — the sport’s oldest major — reflects the UK’s lasting influence.
South Africa, though smaller in size, has been a force in golf, producing about 10 major wins. Gary Player’s nine majors between 1959 and 1978 put South Africa on the map, followed by stars like Ernie Els and Retief Goosen.
Australia’s contribution is similarly impressive, with around 10 major championships. Peter Thomson dominated The Open with five wins, Greg Norman added two more and Adam Scott’s 2013 Masters victory marked a historic breakthrough.