Best Golfers to Never Win a Major
Golf is often touted as a sport where success is measured not only in the number of wins but also in the quality of one’s play and the impact a player has on the game. While the prestigious major championships—The Masters, the U.S. Open, the Open Championship, and the PGA Championship—serve as the pinnacle of golf achievement, some truly remarkable players have sadly never had the glorious opportunity to hoist one of those coveted trophies. In this blog post, we’ll celebrate the stories, careers, and legacies of the best golfers to never win a major, acknowledging their undeniable talent and the affection we hold for each of their journeys.
1. Phil Mickelson
While Phil Mickelson is now a three-time Masters champion and a beloved figure in golf, it’s hard to ignore the years before his major victories, where he became synonymous with near misses. Mickelson crafted an impressive career, accumulating a staggering number of PGA Tour wins which could have easily translated into more majors; however, his persistence and heart were put to the ultimate test when it came to major championships.
Between 1999 and 2009, Mickelson finished as a runner-up in multiple major tournaments, earning the affectionate title of “the best player to never win a major” during that stretch. His passion for the game, magnetic personality, and undying bond with fans symbolized resilience in pursuit of greatness. Mickelson recognized that each loss only served to teach him valuable lessons, and his successes—once they came—had an extra layer of sweetness thanks to the trials he endured.
2. Davis Love III
Davis Love III is a name that resonates with many golf enthusiasts. A victorious Ryder Cup captain and one of the most stylish figures on the course, Love was a dominant force in the 1990s. His smooth swing and cool demeanor highlighted an exceptional career that included an impressive list of victories, but despite his incredible talent, he was unable to secure a major title during what many consider his prime.
Love’s closest brushes with a major came during the U.S. Open, where he finished as a runner-up twice, and at the PGA Championship. His ability to elevate his play in high-pressure situations is what endears him to fans. Love’s legacy goes beyond the majors; he is remembered for his sportsmanship, love for the game, and the contributions he made to team golf. His role in the Ryder Cup as a player and captain remains monumental and a testament to his passion for the sport.
3. Lee Hodges
Though not as widely recognized as some of the legends mentioned here, Lee Hodges made an indelible mark on the game during his career. From the late 1980s into the 1990s, he showcased some of the greatest talent on the PGA Tour, frequently contending in tournaments. Hodges had a delightful playing style that captured the hearts of those who followed his journey.
Hodges is often remembered for his close calls in seminal events, including several finishes in the top ten in majors. The sportsmanship displayed in each of these attempts, alongside the unyielding dedication he exhibited, is emblematic of the true fighting spirit of a golfer. Even today, Hodges continues to inspire young golfers, reminding the world that love for the game can often define a player’s legacy just as much as the number of trophies collected.
4. Colin Montgomerie
Colin Montgomerie’s golfing journey is one of both brilliance and heartbreak. One of the best players in European golf history, Montgomerie is known for his nine consecutive European Tour Order of Merit titles from 1993 to 2001. His incredible consistency and dominance on the European circuit are second to none.
However, Montgomerie’s major championship career is defined by heartbreak. Despite finishing as a runner-up in four majors and continuously displaying a strong desire to win, the elusive title ultimately slipped away. Fans and fellow competitors couldn’t help but root for Montgomerie as he navigated the highs and lows of the game. His enduring spirit transformed him into an ambassador for golf after retirement, as he remains actively involved in charitable endeavors and promotes grassroots initiatives to introduce the sport to new generations. Montgomerie’s passion for golf, even without the majors, remains a beacon of inspiration.
5. Anthony Kim
While Anthony Kim burst onto the tour with astonishing talent in the late 2000s, quickly making a name for himself, injuries led to his early exit from professional golf. In a few short years, Kim garnered accolades and accolades, yet despite his brilliance, he never captured a major title. Statistically, he was on a trajectory that hinted at further greatness, indicated by his early finishes.
Kim had an infectious smile and unmatched charisma, which made fans fall in love with him. The heartwarming image of him displaying sheer joy while competing, especially during the 2008 Ryder Cup, showcased the pure enthusiasm he brought to the game. Kim’s legacy endures as his unmistakable flair and talent resonate with fans, ensuring he’s never forgotten.
6. Richard Bland
Although Richard Bland’s name might not be as recognizable as some others on this list, his story is one of grit and determination. After twenty years of professional golf, he finally secured his first European Tour win at the age of 48—but sadly, he fell short in major tournaments. His two top-ten finishes in the Open Championship reflect the considerable skill he possesses. Bland is revered not just for his talent but for his relentless pursuit of greatness, showcasing that perseverance is an integral part of what it means to be a golfer.
Bland’s journey emphasizes that golf is about more than just trophies; it’s about the love for the sport, the bonds formed with fans, and the thrill of chasing dreams against the odds. His infectious joy and unyielding spirit make him a cherished figure in contemporary golf.
7. Matt Kuchar
With a friendly persona and an effortless swing, Matt Kuchar has made an everlasting impact on the game of golf. A consistent performer throughout his career and a perennial contender, Kuchar has seen success in numerous tournaments without securing a major title. Kuchar’s journey embodies a reminder that passion and dedication define a player more than the glitter of major championships.
The “Kuch” has certainly brought joy to fans through his consistent play, sportsmanship, and approachability, resonating with people of all ages. The absence of a major title does not define Kuchar; rather, his ongoing commitment to the game and the community defines him as one of golf’s most beloved figures.
8. Willie Park Jr.
Venturing back in history, Willie Park Jr. was a pioneer of the sport during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Known for his gentlemanly demeanor and tremendous talent, he won the Open Championship in 1887, but his era was complicated by the difficulty of returning to the majors, as they weren’t as prolific in quantity. With golf evolving and emerging as a sport in the public eye, Park became a revered figure, shaping the elegance of the game.
Willie Park Jr.’s commitment to developing the sport and passing on his knowledge is celebrated among golf enthusiasts. Though players may contend in different formats and complexities today, his influence as an early leader and innovator is truly timeless.
9. Ernie Els
Though “The Big Easy” is far from a stranger to success—multiple times a major champion—it bears mentioning that before his first victory at the U.S. Open in 1994, Els faced countless setbacks that tested his character as a golfer. In his earlier days, Els finished second in several major championships, quickly establishing a reputation as the one who could have been a multiple major champion.
His grace and fluid swing enticed fans, and his work post-golf, including establishing the Els for Autism foundation, showcased the heart that drives him. Els’s contributions to the game, both on and off the course, cement his legacy as a beloved figure in golf, making him an enduring example of resilience and compassion.
Conclusion
The list of golfers who have never won a major championship may seem perplexing to some, but a closer look reveals the beauty in their tales—their passion, resilience, and dedication culminate in narratives that each golf fan should cherish. These golfers remind us that the spirit of the game lies not only within the boundaries of major trophies but, more importantly, in the experiences shared with friends, fans, and families who support these amazing athletes.
Their love for the game is infectious, creating the threads of camaraderie that connect fans to these unforgettable players. As we celebrate their journeys and the ways they have enriched the sport, we are reminded that success is not solely defined by major victories. We salute these extraordinary individuals, not only for their incredible skills on the golf course but also for the joy they bring to the game and its fans. Each swing, each near miss, and each heartfelt moment contributes to the colorful tapestry of golf history, forever leaving a mark on our hearts.