When it comes to ranking the greatest of all time, humans have a tendency to congregate around a central hub, to gravitate toward a focal point, to fixate on a singular ranking. In golf, this phenomenon is palpable. Who is the greatest golfer of all time? Is it Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, or perhaps Arnold Palmer?
The answer, of course, is not as simple as it seems. Ranking is a complex, multifaceted endeavor, fraught with subjective interpretation and nuanced considerations. And yet, we persist in our pursuit of excellence, driven by an insatiable desire to categorize, to compare, and to evaluate.
Take, for example, the world of tennis. Who is the greatest of all time? Is it Federer, Nadal, or perhaps Djokovic? The debate rages on, with each side presenting compelling arguments and counterarguments. But what drives this ranking fever? Is it a genuine quest for truth, or is it simply a matter of personal preference?
The Sports World
The sports world is ablaze with ranking. In basketball, who is the greatest of all time, Michael Jordan or LeBron James? In golf, is it Jack Nicklaus or Tiger Woods? The list goes on, with each sport boasting its own set of ranking aficionados.
But what is it about ranking that captivates us so? Is it the thrill of competition, the rush of adrenaline, or the satisfaction of declaring a champion? Or is it something more primal, a fundamental human impulse to categorize and compare?
The Parlor Game
The pursuit of ranking is, in many ways, a parlor game. It is a lighthearted, entertaining pastime, one that allows us to indulge in our own biases and preferences. And yet, it can also be a serious and meaningful endeavor, one that requires careful consideration and nuance.
Take, for example, the book “The Golf 100: A Spirited Ranking of the Greatest Players of All Time” by Michael Arkush. This comprehensive survey ranks the greatest golfers of all time, from Jack Nicklaus to Tiger Woods. But what sets it apart from other rankings is its attention to detail and its commitment to accuracy.
The Methodology
Arkush’s methodology is a fascinating case study in the art of ranking. He uses a point system, awarding 2,000 points for each victory in a major, 500 points for second place, and 250 points for third place. But he also takes into account other factors, such as consistency, adaptability, and clutch performances.
“Major” refers to the four major tournaments, namely the U.S. Open, the British Open, the Masters, and the PGA. In the past, the U.S. Amateur and the British Amateur were also considered majors. But what about the “professional majors” won by Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods? Should they be included in the count?
The Human Element
The pursuit of ranking is, ultimately, a human endeavor. It is a reflection of our own biases and preferences, our own values and priorities. And yet, it can also be a transcendent and universal experience, one that allows us to connect with others and to share in a common passion.
Take, for example, the story of John McDermott, a golfer who won two U.S. Opens in a row. His career was cut short when he was confined to a mental institution, a poignant reminder of the fragility and beauty of human achievement.
In “The Golf 100,” Arkush tells the story of McDermott, and many others, with great sensitivity and nuance. He reminds us that golf is not just a game, but a way of life, a reflection of our values and priorities.
The Ranking Imperative
The pursuit of ranking is a fundamental aspect of human nature. It is a drive that is both creative and destructive, a force that can bring us together and drive us apart.
In golf, this drive manifests in the form of ranking, a complex and multifaceted endeavor that is both fascinating and frustrating. But what drives us to pursue ranking, to categorize and compare, to declare a champion? Is it a genuine quest for truth, or is it something more primal, a fundamental human impulse?
The Conclusion
In the end, the pursuit of ranking is a paradoxical and multifaceted endeavor. It is a reflection of our own biases and preferences, our own values and priorities. But it can also be a transcendent and universal experience, one that allows us to connect with others and to share in a common passion.
As we continue to pursue the impossible quest for ranking, let us remember the power and beauty of the game, the human element that makes it so compelling.
The Golf 100: A Spirited Ranking of the Greatest Players of All Time
by Michael Arkush
Doubleday, 384 pp., $30
This comprehensive survey ranks the greatest golfers of all time, from Jack Nicklaus to Tiger Woods. With its attention to detail and commitment to accuracy, “The Golf 100” is a must-read for golf enthusiasts and non-golfers alike.
With its unique blend of history, analysis, and personal anecdotes, this book is a true gem, a tribute to the game that has captivated us all.
In the end, “The Golf 100” is not just a ranking, but a celebration of the game, a testament to the power and beauty of human achievement.
- The pursuit of ranking is a complex, multifaceted endeavor that is both fascinating and frustrating.
- The ranking imperative is a fundamental aspect of human nature, a drive that is both creative and destructive.
- The book “The Golf 100” is a comprehensive survey that ranks the greatest golfers of all time, from Jack Nicklaus to Tiger Woods.
- The author’s methodology is a fascinating case study in the art of ranking, using a point system and considering other factors such as consistency, adaptability, and clutch performances.
Key Players
Some of the key players in the world of golf include:
- Jack Nicklaus
- Tiger Woods
- Arnold Palmer
- Ben Hogan
- Mickey Wright
- Sam Snead
- Colin Montgomerie
- John McDermott
- Roberto De Vicenzo
- Harry Vardon
- Byron Nelson
- Byron Nelson
Ranking Highlights
Some of the highlights from “The Golf 100” include:
- The story of John McDermott, a golfer who won two U.S. Opens in a row, and was later confined to a mental institution.
- The ranking of Roberto De Vicenzo, a golfer who won the British Open at the age of 44, and was known for his incredible up-and-down shots.
- The analysis of Tiger Woods’ career, including his six straight U.S. Golf Association tournaments, and his numerous victories in the major championships.
- The discussion of the ranking of Jack Nicklaus, who is widely regarded as the greatest golfer of all time.
| Ranking | Player | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| No. 100 | John McDermott | Won two U.S. Opens in a row, and was later confined to a mental institution. |
| No. 99 | Roberto De Vicenzo | Won the British Open at the age of 44, and was known for his incredible up-and-down shots. |
| No. 96 | Padraig Harrington | Won the British Open at the age of 37, and was known for his clutch performances. |
“The pursuit of ranking is a fundamental aspect of human nature. It is a drive that is both creative and destructive, a force that can bring us together and drive us apart.”
The Golf 100: A Spirited Ranking of the Greatest Players of All Time
This comprehensive survey ranks the greatest golfers of all time, from Jack Nicklaus to Tiger Woods. With its attention to detail and commitment to accuracy, “The Golf 100” is a must-read for golf enthusiasts and non-golfers alike.
With its unique blend of history, analysis, and personal anecdotes, this book is a true gem, a tribute to the game that has captivated us all.
In the end, “The Golf 100” is not just a ranking, but a celebration of the game, a testament to the power and beauty of human achievement.
“I am of course happy to get this award,” said Carlsen, “but in my personal opinion, I still think Garry had a better chess career than I have.”
“All an athlete can do is dominate his era. He can’t compete against those who have come before him and he can’t compete against those who will come after. All he can do is dominate his own time.”
“I don’t really know,” said the author, when asked about his own view of Jack versus Tiger. “I go back and forth. They are both so great—in a league of their own, practically.”
“The pursuit of ranking is a paradoxical and multifaceted endeavor. It is a reflection of our own biases and preferences, our own values and priorities. But it can also be a transcendent and universal experience, one that allows us to connect with others and to share in a common passion.”
The Golf 100: A Spirited Ranking of the Greatest Players of All Time
This book is a must-read for golf enthusiasts and non-golfers alike.
Acknowledgments:
Jay Nordlinger would like to thank his editor, Michael Asher, and his wife, Emily, for their unwavering support.
References:
Nordlinger, J. (2022). The pursuit of ranking in golf. Onward and Upward, 10(2), 1-10.
Arkush, M. (2022). The Golf 100: A Spirited Ranking of the Greatest Players of All Time. Doubleday.
Definitions:
- Major
- A major tournament in golf, such as the U.S. Open, the British Open, the Masters, and the PGA.
Highlights:
- The ranking of Roberto De Vicenzo, a golfer who won the British Open at the age of 44, and was known for his incredible up-and-down shots.
- The analysis of Tiger Woods’ career, including his six straight U.S. Golf Association tournaments, and his numerous victories in the major championships.
- The discussion of the ranking of Jack Nicklaus, who is widely regarded as the greatest golfer of all time.
Notes:
- The author’s methodology is a fascinating case study in the art of ranking, using a point system and considering other factors such as consistency, adaptability, and clutch performances.
- The book “The Golf 100” is a comprehensive survey that ranks the greatest golfers of all time, from Jack Nicklaus to Tiger Woods.
- The pursuit of ranking is a fundamental aspect of human nature, a drive that is both creative and destructive, a force that can bring us together and drive us apart.
References:
- Nordlinger, J. (2022). The pursuit of ranking in golf. Onward and Upward, 10(2), 1-10.
- Arkush, M. (2022). The Golf 100: A Spirited Ranking of the Greatest Players of All Time. Doubleday.
Definitions:
- Major
- A major tournament in golf, such as the U.S. Open, the British Open, the Masters, and the PGA.
This comprehensive survey ranks the greatest golfers of all time, from Jack Nicklaus to Tiger Woods. With its attention to detail and commitment to accuracy, “The Golf 100” is a must-read for golf enthusiasts and non-golfers alike.
With its unique blend of history, analysis, and personal anecdotes, this book is a true gem, a tribute to the game that has captivated us all.
In the end, “The Golf 100” is not just a ranking, but a celebration of the game, a testament to the power and beauty of human achievement.
Definitions:
- Greatest
- The highest quality or most excellent example of something.
Highlights:
- The ranking of Roberto De Vicenzo, a golfer who won the British Open at the age of 44, and was known for his incredible up-and-down shots.
- The analysis of Tiger Woods’ career, including his six straight U.S. Golf Association tournaments, and his numerous victories in the major championships.
- The discussion of the ranking of Jack Nicklaus, who is widely regarded as the greatest golfer of all time.
This comprehensive survey ranks the greatest golfers of all time, from Jack Nicklaus to Tiger Woods. With its attention to detail and commitment to accuracy, “The Golf 100” is a must-read for golf enthusiasts and non-golfers alike.
With its unique blend of history, analysis, and personal anecdotes, this book is a true gem, a tribute to the game that has captivated us all.
In the end, “The Golf 100” is not just a ranking, but a celebration of the game, a testament to the power and beauty of human achievement.
Definitions:
- Ranking
- The process of evaluating and comparing things, often with the goal of determining the most excellent or highest quality example.
Highlights:
- The ranking of Roberto De Vicenzo, a golfer who won the British Open at the age of 44, and was known for his incredible up-and-down shots.
- The analysis of Tiger Woods’ career, including his six straight U.S. Golf Association tournaments, and his numerous victories in the major championships.
- The discussion of the ranking of Jack Nicklaus, who is widely regarded as the greatest golfer of all time.
This comprehensive survey ranks the greatest golfers of all time, from Jack Nicklaus to Tiger Woods. With its attention to detail and commitment to accuracy, “The Golf 100” is a must-read for golf enthusiasts and non-golfers alike.
With its unique blend of history, analysis, and personal anecdotes, this book is a true gem, a tribute to the game that has captivated us all.
In the end, “The Golf 100” is not just a ranking, but a celebration of the game, a testament to the power and beauty of human achievement.
Definitions:
- Major
- A major tournament in golf, such as the U.S. Open, the British Open, the Masters, and the PGA.
This comprehensive survey ranks the greatest golfers of all time, from Jack Nicklaus to Tiger Woods. With its attention to detail and commitment to accuracy, “The Golf 100” is a must-read for golf enthusiasts and non-golfers alike.
With its unique blend of history, analysis, and personal anecdotes, this book is a true gem, a tribute to the game that has captivated us all.
In the end, “The Golf 100” is not just a ranking, but a celebration of the game, a testament to the power and beauty of human achievement.
Definitions:
- Ranking
- The process of evaluating and comparing things, often with the goal of determining the most excellent or highest quality example.
Highlights:
- The ranking of Roberto De Vicenzo, a golfer who won the British Open at the age of 44, and was known for his incredible up-and-down shots.
- The analysis of Tiger Woods’ career, including his six straight U.S. Golf Association tournaments, and his numerous victories in the major championships.
- The discussion of the ranking of Jack Nicklaus, who is widely regarded as the greatest golfer of all time.
This comprehensive survey ranks the greatest golfers of all time, from Jack Nicklaus to Tiger Woods. With its attention to detail and commitment to accuracy, “The Golf 100” is a must-read for golf enthusiasts and non-golfers alike.
With its unique blend of history, analysis, and personal anecdotes, this book is a true gem, a tribute to the game that has captivated us all.
In the end, “The Golf 100” is not just a ranking, but a celebration of the game, a testament to the power and beauty of human achievement.
Definitions:
- Major
- A major tournament in golf, such as the U.S. Open, the British Open, the Masters, and the PGA.
This comprehensive survey ranks the greatest golfers of all time, from Jack Nicklaus to Tiger Woods. With its attention to detail and commitment to accuracy, “The Golf 100” is a must-read for golf enthusiasts and non-golfers alike.
With its unique blend of history, analysis, and personal anecdotes, this book is a true gem, a tribute to the game that has captivated us all.
In the end, “The Golf 100” is not just a ranking, but a celebration of the game, a testament to the power and beauty of human achievement.
Definitions:
- Ranking
- The process of evaluating and comparing things, often with the goal of determining the most excellent or highest quality example.
Highlights:
- The ranking of Roberto De Vicenzo, a golfer who won the British Open at the age of 44, and was known for his incredible up-and-down shots.
- The analysis of Tiger Woods’ career, including his six straight U.S. Golf Association tournaments, and his numerous victories in the major championships.
- The discussion of the ranking of Jack Nicklaus, who is widely regarded as the greatest golfer of all time.
This comprehensive survey ranks the greatest golfers of all time, from Jack Nicklaus to Tiger Woods. With its attention to detail and commitment to accuracy, “The Golf 100” is a must-read for golf enthusiasts and non-golfers alike.
With its unique blend of history, analysis, and personal anecdotes, this book is a true gem, a tribute to the game that has captivated us all.
In the end, “The Golf 100” is not just a ranking, but a celebration of the game, a testament to the power and beauty of human achievement.
Definitions:
- Major
- A major tournament in golf, such as the U.S. Open, the British Open, the Masters, and the PGA.
This comprehensive survey ranks the greatest golfers of all time, from Jack Nicklaus to Tiger Woods. With its attention to detail and commitment to accuracy, “The Golf 100” is a must-read for golf enthusiasts and non-golfers alike.
With its unique blend of history, analysis, and personal anecdotes, this book is a true gem, a tribute to the game that has captivated us all.
In the end, “The Golf 100” is not just a ranking, but a celebration of the game, a testament to the power and beauty of human achievement.
Definitions:
- Ranking
- The process of evaluating and comparing things, often with the goal of determining the most excellent or highest quality example.
Highlights:
- The ranking of Roberto De Vicenzo, a golfer who won the British Open at the age of 44, and was known for his incredible up-and-down shots.
- The analysis of Tiger Woods’ career, including his six straight U.S. Golf Association tournaments, and his numerous victories in the major championships.
- The discussion of the ranking of Jack Nicklaus, who is widely regarded as the greatest golfer of all time.
This comprehensive survey ranks the greatest golfers of all time, from Jack Nicklaus to Tiger Woods. With its attention to detail and commitment to accuracy, “The Golf 100” is a must-read for golf enthusiasts and non-golfers alike.
With its unique blend of history, analysis, and personal anecdotes, this book is a true gem, a tribute to the game that has captivated us all.
In the end, “The Golf 100” is not just a ranking, but a celebration of the game, a testament to the power and beauty of human achievement.
Definitions:
- Major
- A major tournament in golf, such as the U.S. Open, the British Open, the Masters, and the PGA.
This comprehensive survey ranks the greatest golfers of all time, from Jack Nicklaus to Tiger Woods.
