Iconic PGA Championship moments

The PGA Championship has given us some fantastic moments over many years.

The PGA Championship, one of golf’s four major tournaments, has witnessed countless unforgettable moments since its beginning in 1916. There have been many dramatic finishes as well as record-breaking performances. These events have shaped golf history and have captivated many fans across the world;. Here’s a look at some of the most iconic moments in PGA Championship history.

 

Tiger Woods Dramatic Playoff Victory (2000)

In 2000, Tiger Woods faced Bob May in a playoff at Valhalla Golf Club. After an intense final round, Woods needed a six-foot birdie putt just to force extra holes. Woods displayed his legendary skill and determination in the playoff. He secured victory and his status as a golfing icon. Woods secured the third consecutive major win and became an even bigger legend in the sport.

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Bob Tway’s Bunker Miracle (1986)

One of the most memorable shots in major championship history was made by Bob Tway at the 1986 PGA Championship held at Inverness Club in Toledo, Ohio. Tied with Greg Norman coming to the final hole, Tway ended up in a greenside bunker. With nerves of steel, he came up with an incredible shot that dropped perfectly into the cup for a birdie. Norman faltered when he missed a putt that would have forced a playoff. Tway’s incredible sand shot has remained a highlight of the tournament. It also perfectly shows the unpredictability of golf.

Jack Nicklaus’ First Major Win (1963)

Jack Nicklaus won his first PGA Championship at the age of 23. He overcame brutal conditions in Dallas, where temperatures soared above 100 degrees fahrenheit. Starting the final round three strokes behind Bruce Crampton, Nicklaus fired a remarkable 68 to claim victory by two shots. This win was very significant for its historical context. It also established Nicklaus as a formidable force in professional golf.

The Duel in the Sun (1977)

While not strictly part of the PGA Championship, the legendary “Duel in the Sun” between Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus during the 1977 Open Championship is iconic in its own right. Their fierce competition at Turnberry culminated in Watson’s narrow victory by just one stroke after an incredible final-round 65. This match is often referenced when discussing iconic moments in major championships due to its sheer intensity and skill.

Phil Mickelson’s Long-Awaited Victory (2021)

In 2021, Phil Mickelson made history by becoming the oldest major champion at age 50. He made a stunning win at Kiawah Island’s Ocean Course. In the final round, he held off challengers like Brooks Koepka and Louis Oosthuizen. Mickelson’s emotional victory will remain memorable for many years to come. It inspired many golfers around the world, proving that age is just a number in pursuit of greatness.

Rory McIlroy’s Dominance (2012)

Rory McIlroy captured his second major title at the 2012 PGA Championship. With an impressive eight-shot victory at Kiawah Island, his performance included rounds of 65-66-68-66, where he showed remarkable consistency and skill under pressure. This win solidified McIlroy’s place among golf’s elite. It also demonstrated his potential to dominate tournaments.

These moments represent just a fraction of what makes the PGA Championship so special. Each event brings its own stories and legends. As fans anticipate future tournaments, they can reflect on these iconic instances that continue to inspire golfers across generations.

Updated: January 20, 2025