In a sport where rivalries run deep and fans love to pick favorites, a rare few golfers manage to earn universal admiration. These players stayed humble, kept it classy, and made fans cheer no matter the scoreboard.
They might’ve broken hearts with clutch putts or dominant wins, but they always did it with a smile and a handshake. From old-school legends to modern-day fan favorites, here are 25 golfers who never had a single hater.
25. Corey Pavin
He didn’t have the flash, but he sure had the grit. Always humble, always focused—Pavin was the type of guy you wanted to root for even when he beat your favorite.
24. Zach Johnson
A quiet killer with major wins under his belt, Johnson let his game do all the talking. His humility and work ethic made him hard not to admire.
23. Fred Funk
He had a name that made people smile and a game that flew under the radar. Funk brought good vibes and dad energy to every tournament.
22. Graeme McDowell
McDowell had the swagger of a pub regular and the demeanor of a gentleman. Fans loved him for his honesty, charm, and that silky Northern Irish accent.
21. Matt Kuchar
Before any caddie drama entered the chat, Kuchar was the PGA Tour’s smile machine. He was so likable that people rooted for him even in playoff losses.
20. Jerry Kelly
Blue-collar game, blue-collar vibe. Kelly always gave maximum effort and maximum friendliness in equal doses.
19. Ben Crenshaw
“Little Ben” brought heart and soul to every green he touched. His emotion after the 1999 Ryder Cup win still makes golf fans misty.
18. Mark O’Meara
A pro’s pro with a timeless swing and a reputation for being one of the good guys. He was never the loudest in the room, but always one of the most respected.
17. Branden Grace
Steady, soft-spoken, and always respectful. Grace’s humility made him a fan favorite, especially during international play.
16. Mike Weir
Canada’s pride and joy with a Masters win that felt like a win for all the nice guys. Weir’s calm demeanor and class were unmatched.
15. Luke Donald
Always elegant, always composed. Donald spent time as world number one without ever being a polarizing figure.
14. Tom Lehman
Whether as a Ryder Cup captain or player, Lehman always showed leadership without ego. He was the kind of guy everyone rallied behind.
13. Paul Casey
A gentleman on and off the course who rarely found himself in drama. Casey was just easy to cheer for.
12. Adam Hadwin
A Canadian with manners so pure he’d probably apologize for making birdie. Always gracious, always upbeat—Hadwin’s a walking good vibe.
11. Viktor Hovland
That permanent smile? Impossible to root against. Hovland’s charm and cheerful attitude make him a fan magnet.
10. Davis Love III
Classy and consistent for decades. DL3 earned the respect of peers and fans without ever demanding it.
9. Jordan Spieth
Even in the spotlight, Spieth stayed humble and thoughtful. He talks to his golf ball more than opponents, and we kind of love him for it.
8. Tony Finau
You can’t find a more likable human on the course. From his family-first mindset to his positive energy, Finau is just beloved.
7. Ernie Els
They didn’t call him “The Big Easy” for nothing. Els moved through life and golf gracefully, always with a smile and a good word.
6. Tom Watson
Even when he lost, he did it with grace. Watson’s sportsmanship and longevity made him a true legend.
5. Bernhard Langer
The most polite competitor in golf history. Langer dominated without ever flexing—just pure class.
4. Rickie Fowler
Rickie’s been a fan favorite since day one, even when the wins didn’t come. He stayed grounded and generous no matter what.
3. Payne Stewart
Stylish, spirited, and full of heart, Stewart left a legacy bigger than the game. His final moments made everyone remember why they loved him.
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2. Fred Couples
Cooler than a breeze on 17 at Augusta. Couples is the guy everyone wishes they could play like—and hang out with afterward.
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1. Arnold Palmer
The King wasn’t just a nickname—it was a way of life. No golfer earned more love and less hate than Arnie, who turned fans into lifelong loyalists.
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