Classic putts are memorable for their impact on the outcome of tournaments and their dramatic moments on the greens. Here are some of the most iconic putts in golf history:
1. Jack Nicklaus – 1986 Masters Tournament
- Hole: 17th Green
- Details: Nicklaus made a crucial 15-foot birdie putt on the 17th hole of the final round to take the lead and eventually win his sixth Masters title. This putt is celebrated for its importance in securing his victory at the age of 46.
2. Tiger Woods – 2005 Masters Tournament
- Hole: 16th Green
- Details: Woods made an incredible chip-in birdie on the 16th hole during the final round. The putt was famous for its dramatic break and the way it seemingly defied gravity as it rolled towards the hole, giving Woods a one-shot lead that led to his fourth green jacket.
3. Phil Mickelson – 2004 Masters Tournament
- Hole: 18th Green
- Details: Mickelson made a memorable birdie putt on the 18th hole to secure his first major victory. The putt was a dramatic moment in his career and is remembered for its significance in breaking Mickelson's major championship drought.
4. Ben Crenshaw – 1995 Masters Tournament
- Hole: 17th Green
- Details: Crenshaw made a key putt on the 17th hole to take the lead during the final round. His emotional victory, coming shortly after the death of his mentor Harvey Penick, was highlighted by his clutch putting.
5. Arnold Palmer – 1960 U.S. Open
- Hole: 18th Green
- Details: Palmer made a dramatic 12-foot birdie putt on the final hole to win the U.S. Open. This putt is often remembered as a defining moment in Palmer's career and is celebrated for its significance in securing his first major championship.
6. Jean Van de Velde – 1999 Open Championship
- Hole: 18th Green
- Details: Van de Velde infamously missed a three-foot putt on the 18th hole that could have secured his victory. His dramatic collapse on the final hole is one of the most memorable moments in golf history, often discussed as a classic example of how putting can make or break a championship.
7. Justin Thomas – 2017 PGA Championship
- Hole: 17th Green
- Details: Thomas made a clutch birdie putt on the 17th hole of the final round to help secure his first major championship. The putt was crucial in his victory and showcased his exceptional putting under pressure.
8. Bubba Watson – 2012 Masters Tournament
- Hole: 10th Hole (Playoff)
- Details: Watson made a memorable putt in the playoff to win his first Masters title. The putt was part of an impressive performance that included a dramatic hook shot from the trees on the 10th hole.
9. Gary Player – 1978 Masters Tournament
- Hole: 18th Green
- Details: Player made a crucial putt on the 18th hole to secure his third Masters title. The putt was significant for its role in securing Player's victory and is remembered for its precision under pressure.
10. Rory McIlroy – 2011 U.S. Open
- Hole: 18th Green
- Details: McIlroy made a par putt on the 18th hole to complete his victory at the U.S. Open. His performance was notable for its dominance throughout the tournament, and the final putt sealed his first major championship.
These classic putts are celebrated not only for their technical brilliance but also for the dramatic impact they had on the outcome of major tournaments. They serve as reminders of the high-stakes moments that define the sport of golf.