1. Tiger Woods – 2019 Masters

The 2019 Masters marked one of the most incredible comebacks in golf history. Tiger Woods, once considered to be past his prime, stunned the world by winning his fifth Masters title. Woods had faced multiple personal and physical setbacks in the years leading up to this moment. He had been plagued by injuries and was coming off a scandal that left his career in question. However, at Augusta, Woods displayed his signature resilience, overcoming a strong field of competitors, including a late charge by Dustin Johnson and Brooks Koepka. His victory, which came 14 years after his previous Masters win, was a testament to his unwavering focus and determination. This win solidified Woods’ place in golf history and marked an emotional return to the top.

2. Ben Hogan – 1950 U.S. Open

Ben Hogan’s comeback story is one of the most inspiring in the history of sports. After surviving a near-fatal car accident in 1949, Hogan was told that his career might be over. His injuries were so severe that he had to learn to walk again. Despite these challenges, Hogan returned to golf in 1950 and shocked the world by winning the U.S. Open. This victory was even more remarkable because Hogan had to play through intense pain and was not fully recovered. His triumph at the U.S. Open, just a year after his accident, remains one of the greatest comebacks in the sport and solidified his legacy as one of the game’s all-time greats.

3. Jack Nicklaus – 1986 Masters

Jack Nicklaus’ victory at the 1986 Masters is often regarded as one of the greatest comebacks in golf. At 46 years old, Nicklaus was considered to be past his prime. However, he defied expectations by winning his sixth Masters title. Nicklaus made an incredible charge in the final round, shooting a 65, which included a birdie on the 17th hole to take the lead. Despite fierce competition from younger players like Greg Norman and Seve Ballesteros, Nicklaus held his composure and secured a one-shot victory. His win in 1986 proved that age is just a number and that experience can still triumph over youth.

4. Rory McIlroy – 2014 Ryder Cup

Rory McIlroy’s performance during the 2014 Ryder Cup was nothing short of spectacular. In the singles matches, McIlroy found himself trailing by two points to the United States’ Keegan Bradley. With the pressure mounting, McIlroy delivered a flawless performance, winning the match 2 and 1. This victory helped secure the European team’s triumph and was a defining moment in McIlroy’s career. The comeback demonstrated his ability to thrive under pressure and cemented his reputation as one of the game’s brightest stars.

5. Phil Mickelson – 2010 Masters

Phil Mickelson’s win at the 2010 Masters was a dramatic comeback that left fans on the edge of their seats. Heading into the final round, Mickelson trailed Lee Westwood by one shot. However, Mickelson’s flawless 67 on the final day, including an eagle on the 13th hole, helped him surge to the top of the leaderboard. His victory, which was his third Masters title, was even more remarkable considering the personal challenges he had been facing at the time, including his wife’s battle with cancer. Mickelson’s emotional win at Augusta solidified his place as one of golf’s all-time greats.

6. Gary Player – 1961 U.S. Open

Gary Player’s win at the 1961 U.S. Open is often overshadowed by other great comebacks, but it is no less remarkable. After being one of the few international players to make an impact on the PGA Tour, Player faced stiff competition in the 1961 U.S. Open. He entered the final round trailing by three strokes but staged an incredible rally to win by a single shot. Player’s comeback was the result of incredible composure and precise shot-making, proving that determination and skill could overcome the most difficult of odds. His win in 1961 marked the beginning of a legendary career that would include nine major championships.

Conclusion

The best comebacks in golf history are a testament to the mental toughness and resilience required to succeed in this sport. Whether it’s Tiger Woods’ emotional victory at the 2019 Masters or Ben Hogan’s miraculous return after a life-threatening accident, these comebacks show that anything is possible with determination and focus. Each of these moments not only changed the course of the players’ careers but also left an indelible mark on the history of golf. These stories will continue to inspire golfers and fans alike for years to come.