The 20 Greatest American Golfers of All Time – Ranked

18. Hale Irwin

With three U.S. Open victories, Irwin remains one of the most decorated players in that championship. His longevity and dominance carried over into a stellar senior career as well.

17. Raymond Floyd

Floyd won Majors in three different decades and captured titles at The Masters, U.S. Open, and PGA Championship. His intimidating focus and sharp short game made him a fierce competitor.

16. Francis Ouimet

Often credited with bringing golf into the American mainstream, Ouimet shocked the world by winning the 1913 U.S. Open as a 20-year-old amateur. His story inspired generations to take up the game.

15. Brooks Koepka

A modern powerhouse, Koepka has already racked up five Major titles and thrived in golf’s biggest moments. His calm demeanor and athleticism make him a major threat in any field.

14. Ben Crenshaw

A two-time Masters champion, Crenshaw is known as one of the game’s great putters. Revered for his deep respect for golf’s traditions, he also made his mark as a Ryder Cup captain and course designer.

13. Billy Casper

Often overlooked, Casper quietly compiled a brilliant career that included three Major wins and over 50 PGA Tour victories. His steady play and elite putting made him a force throughout the 1960s.

12. Phil Mickelson

Mickelson’s flair and risk-taking style have captivated fans for decades. With six Majors and countless memorable shots, “Lefty” has remained relevant across multiple generations.

11. Lee Trevino

Known for his humor and unique swing, Trevino won six Majors and went toe-to-toe with golf’s best. From humble beginnings, he became a legend and an inspiration to many.

10. Gene Sarazen

Sarazen won seven Majors and was the first to complete the career Grand Slam. His iconic double eagle at the 1935 Masters remains one of golf’s most legendary moments.

9. Walter Hagen

Hagen’s 11 Major titles rank third all-time among Americans. A flamboyant showman, he helped elevate professional golf’s status and won four Open Championships as the first U.S.-born player to do so.

8. Tom Watson

One of the dominant players of the 1970s and 1980s, Watson claimed eight Majors, including five Open Championships. His rivalry with Jack Nicklaus and near-win at the 2009 Open at age 59 are part of his legacy.

7. Byron Nelson

Nelson’s 1945 season is the stuff of legend—he won 18 tournaments, including 11 in a row. A gentleman of the game, he was also the first to reach 50 PGA Tour wins.

6. Sam Snead

With a record 82 PGA Tour wins, Snead’s smooth swing and longevity defined excellence. He won seven Majors but famously never captured the U.S. Open despite multiple close calls.

5. Ben Hogan

Known for his precision and legendary work ethic, Hogan won nine Majors and came back from a near-fatal car crash to dominate again. His 1953 season—three Majors—was one of the greatest ever.

4. Arnold Palmer

The “King” brought charisma and television appeal to golf in the 1960s. With seven Majors and legions of fans, Palmer turned golf into a global spectacle and inspired millions.

3. Bobby Jones

A lifelong amateur, Jones won 13 Majors and remains the only player to ever win the Grand Slam in a single season (1930). He also co-founded Augusta National and The Masters.

2. Jack Nicklaus

Nicklaus holds the all-time record with 18 Major wins and won Majors in three different decades. The “Golden Bear” combined power, strategy, and mental toughness like no one before him.

1. Tiger Woods

The face of modern golf, Woods has 15 Majors and a record-tying 82 PGA Tour wins. From his 1997 Masters breakthrough to the “Tiger Slam” and countless comebacks, his dominance redefined the sport forever.