Jack Nicklaus – Bio, Net Worth, Children and Grand Children, How Old is He?

Quick Facts

Jack Nicklaus popularly known as The Golden Bear is a former American pro golfer who is has been regarded as the greatest golfer of all time. He began his professional career in 1961 and was active for over four decades. During his career, Jack clinched eighteen major world championships. He also participated in various professional tours including the PGA, US Open, Masters, and Open Championship. In addition to being a golfer, Jack Nicklaus is also a successful businessman. Learn more about Jack Nicklaus bio, net worth, and other facts below.

Jack Nicklaus Bio: How Old is He?

Jack William Nicklaus was born on the 21st day of January 1940 to Helen and her husband Charlie Nicklaus in Columbus, Ohio in the United States. He spent his early years in Upper Arlington and was introduced to the game of golf when he was ten years old by Jack Grout. He schooled at Upper Arlington High School where he was a multi-sport athlete. He featured in different sports including basketball, tennis, football, and baseball.

Soon after his graduation, Jack enrolled at Ohio State University where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy. During his college days, he clinched two Ohio State junior golf championships. At the time, he was the youngest golf player to win the US Junior Amateur championship. Although he intended to continue as a pharmacist after graduation, he eventually gave it up in order to focus on his golf career.

Professional Career and Rise to Fame

Jack Nicklaus began his professional career in November 1961. He was given the name the Golden Bear following his outstanding playing style. At age 22, Jack won his first professional PGA championship in 1962 after defeating Arnold Palmer. He garnered fame through his incredible performance during the tournament and was featured on the cover of mainstream magazines. Also, his meteoric rise to fame fetched him lots of business opportunities and endorsements.

Becoming one of the top contenders in golf, Jack went on to compete in different tournaments including the Masters, US Open, Open Championships, and the PGA Tour. Notably, he won his first Masters Tournament in 1963 and the British Open in 1966. Throughout his professional career, Jack Nicklaus continued to show resilience and record-breaking performances. He competed against the best golfers in the world, some of which include Tony Jacklin, , Doug Sanders, Johnny Miller, Lee Trevino, and , among others.

His professional career lasted for over four decades until his retirement in 2005. During his professional career, Jack won a total of 117 professional games including 18 major championships. He was inducted into the World of Golf Hall of Fame in 1974 and was honored with the PGA Tour Lifetime Achievement Award in 2008. For his contributions to golf development, Jack was given the US Congressional Gold Medal in 2015.

Soon after his retirement, Jack Nicklaus founded an architectural company called Nicklaus Design and devoted his time to designing golf courses. His company has carried out several successful projects including Glen Abbey Golf Course, Harbour Town Golf Links, and St Andrew’s Golf Club, among others.

Net Worth

The legendary golfer won several championships and bagged huge amounts in cash prices. His net worth has continued to be on the increase despite his retirement from the game. The legend currently has a gigantic net worth of $320 million. He made his wealth from his golf career as well as his other business endeavors.

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Jack Nicklaus’ Children and Grand Children

The legendary golf champion Jack Nicklaus is married to his college sweetheart Barbara Bash and they have been living happily ever after. The couple got hitched in July 1960 and has been together for over five decades and counting. Together, they have five children namely Michael, Steven, Gary, Jack, and Nancy Nicklaus. His first son Jack Jr. was born in September 1961 while Steve followed two years later in November 1963. His third child Nancy was born in May 1965, after four years Gary was born in January 1969 and then, Michael came in July 1973. In addition to his five children, Jack and his wife Barbara also have twenty-two grandchildren from their children’s marriages.

Amazingly, when Jack was honored with the United States Congressional Gold Medal in 2015, his whole family was in attendance including his children and grandchildren. Jack’s marriage has been regarded as one of the most successful celebrity marriages. His children are actively involved in their father’s business and are doing well in that regards.

Also Read: Top 10 Richest People in the world with full biography and details.