Golf might be known for quiet crowds and polite claps, but that doesn’t mean its nicknames are boring. From absolute legends to larger-than-life personalities, these golfers earned monikers that stuck like a perfectly struck 9-iron.
Here are the 10 greatest golfer nicknames of all time — ranked with a wink and a waggle.
10. “The Mechanic” – Miguel Ángel Jiménez
He didn’t fix cars, but he definitely fixed golf swings — all while puffing cigars and doing weird stretches. Smooth, unbothered, and somehow cooler than anyone else on the course.
9. “The Big Easy” – Ernie Els
Effortless swing, chill vibes, and a nickname that sounds like a jazz lounge. If golf had a hammock, he’d be napping in it between birdies.
8. “Boom Boom” – Fred Couples
You don’t earn this nickname by laying up. Couples brought power and charisma, and his swing sounded like thunder with a smile.
7. “The Hawk” – Ben Hogan
Focused, fierce, and never missed a target — much like the bird he was named after. You didn’t want to be in his line of sight, on or off the fairway.
6. “Long John” – John Daly
He hits it far, he drinks it hard, and he dresses like a Vegas slot machine. “Long John” isn’t just a nickname — it’s a whole lifestyle.
5. “The Golden Bear” – Jack Nicklaus
Majestic, powerful, and somehow cuddly while dominating everyone. It sounds like a children’s book character who also wins 18 majors.
4. “Lefty” – Phil Mickelson
It’s simple, it’s accurate, and it became iconic. Only Phil could make being left-handed feel like a brand.
3. “The King” – Arnold Palmer
Before the drink, there was the man — charming, dominant, and beloved by fans everywhere. “The King” didn’t just play golf, he ruled it.
2. “El Niño” – Sergio García
He burst onto the scene like a storm, and the nickname followed. Equal parts flash, fire, and occasional tantrum — classic El Niño.
Read More: Ranking the 30 Greatest Golfers of All Time
1. “Tiger” – Tiger Woods
Come on, was there ever any doubt? It’s bold, fierce, globally known, and somehow not even his real name — just the most iconic nickname in golf history.
Read More: Ranking the 15 Most Likeable Golfers of All Time
