Golf might be a game of honor and restraint, but let’s be honest—some of the best to ever tee it up couldn’t help but remind us how good they were. Whether it was through cocky celebrations, backhanded compliments, or a refusal to ever admit a bad shot, these golfers made self-confidence feel like a full-time job.
This list isn’t about skill—we’re not denying their greatness. But when it came to humility, these players often left theirs back in the clubhouse.
20. Sergio Garcia
Sergio has the resume of a champion and the ego to match. His confidence often spilled over into public complaints and dramatic on-course behavior.
19. Rory Sabbatini
Rory was never afraid to speak his mind, even if it rubbed people the wrong way. His swagger didn’t always match his results, but that didn’t stop him from acting like golf’s main character.
18. Ian Poulter
No one believed in Ian Poulter quite like Ian Poulter did. His Ryder Cup theatrics made him a legend—and an expert in self-promotion.
17. Vijay Singh
![Dec 22, 2024; Orlando, Florida, [USA]; Vijay Singh looks to hit a shot out of a bunker on the seventh hole during the PNC Championship at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club.](https://gamerkoala.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Vijay-Singh-10-1024x576.jpg)
Vijay’s focus and talent were undeniable, but humility was never part of the package. He often clashed with players and the media without blinking an eye.
16. Brandel Chamblee
Long retired from tournament play, Brandel found new life in confidently critiquing others. Humble analysis? Not really his thing.
15. Brooks Koepka
Brooks treats majors like a formality and doesn’t hide the fact that he thinks most golfers are soft. His swagger is part of the brand, and humility never made the cut.
14. Bryson DeChambeau
He’s a mad scientist with biceps and a calculator, and he’ll gladly explain that to you in detail. Bryson’s confidence in his methods—and himself—is off the charts.
13. Patrick Reed
Patrick Reed plays with a chip on his shoulder and talks like he’s carrying the whole leaderboard. There’s never been a moment where he didn’t believe he was the guy.
12. Colin Montgomerie
Monty could play with the best of them, but he had a knack for acting like everyone was beneath him. His frosty attitude made him a tough guy to root for.
11. Tiger Woods
Tiger changed the sport, and he knew it every step of the way. Even in his most dominant years, he never felt the need to downplay his greatness.
10. Greg Norman
The Shark had a game built on aggression and an ego to match. His confidence sometimes turned into condescension, especially when he wasn’t winning.
9. Phil Mickelson
Lefty has charm, but behind the grin is a guy who always knew he was the smartest person in the room. His interviews often felt like PR for Team Phil.
8. John Daly
Daly was a fan favorite, but subtlety was never part of his game. His unfiltered confidence made him memorable—and occasionally exhausting.
7. Jordan Spieth
Jordan’s self-talk during rounds is legendary, but it often feels like a live podcast about his own greatness. Even when he’s melting down, he finds a way to narrate it like a hero’s journey.
6. Bubba Watson
Bubba’s talent is undeniable, but he never seemed particularly interested in humility. His attitude toward fans, caddies, and even fellow players has rubbed plenty of people the wrong way.
5. Tony Jacklin
As both a player and a captain, Jacklin didn’t exactly ooze modesty. He often spoke like a man who had reshaped the sport—and expected everyone to agree.
4. Justin Thomas
JT is competitive to his core, and his confidence has been known to cross into cockiness. He plays like he’s always got something to prove—even when he’s already won.
Read More: Ranking the 20 Preachiest Golfers of All Time
3. Nick Faldo
Faldo had the game and the credentials, and he made sure you knew it. Whether on the course or in the broadcast booth, he rarely passed up a chance to elevate himself.
Read More: The 30 Most Genuine Golfers of All Time
2. Rory McIlroy
Rory is thoughtful and articulate, but humble? Not quite. His self-awareness sometimes takes a backseat when he’s talking about his role in golf’s future.
Read More: McIlroy and Spieth Reveal how Golf’s Early Stars Can Fade Fast
1. Jack Nicklaus
Jack’s legacy is unmatched—but so is his confidence in his own legacy. Even in retirement, he makes it clear that no one’s ever done it better than Jack.
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