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As the tournament concluded on Sunday, founder Jack Nicklaus was moved to tears when he announced that his wife would be the next honoree of the event.
Barbara Nicklaus was chosen as the honoree for the 50th Memorial by the Captains Club. Known as the “First Lady of Golf,” she has been a significant figure in golf and a driving force behind her husband’s success in his career.
“Barbara Nickalus has been deeply involved in everything that has transpired, and the captains believed it would be appropriate for Barbara to be nominated on this 50th occasion of the Memorial,” Jack said emotionally during a live television interview as tears filled his eyes. “I broke down and cried the other night, and here I am crying again now.”
“Jack remarked, ‘She’s been involved in everything that’s occurred behind the scenes. For me, it was a deeply emotional decision.'”
Dom Tiberi from 10TV interviewed Barbara following the announcement. She expressed her surprise, stating that she never expected it to happen.
“I was completely stunned and couldn’t find my words for quite some time,” Barbara said to Dom. “I thought, ‘Unbelievable; this shouldn’t have happened.’ Yet, it turned out to be one of the greatest honors I could ever imagine.”
In 1974, Jack inaugurated the Muirfield Village Golf Club and went on to establish the Memorial Tournament two years afterward. According to Jack, Barbara has played a significant role in his success by offering her support and guidance.
“This award holds immense significance for me, and I’m deeply grateful to the Captains Club for considering me,” Barbara expressed. “When the Captains Club met for their annual gathering and our dear friend Charlie Mechem called in with the announcement, I was overwhelmed with emotion and truly at a loss for words. The Memorial Tournament has been incredibly meaningful in our family’s life. It has been a joy to walk alongside Jack as his vision became our shared reality over time. Reflecting on those who have received this honor since 1976 fills me with humility; joining such an esteemed group whom I’ve admired and respected is beyond words.”
In 2004, the two joined forces to establish the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation, which has since raised over $200 million to improve healthcare for children.
Jack Nicklaus gets a hug from his wife Barbara after winning his second consecutive Tradition Senior’s golf tournament. (AP Photo/Jeff Robbins)
Barbara, a Columbus native, graduated from North High School in 1957. She continued her education at The Ohio State University, where she pursued a degree in nursing.
She met Jack during their first week on campus as freshmen, and they got married in 1960. They have five children together, along with 24 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
On the day before the first round of the 2025 Memorial Tournament, Barbara will be recognized during a ceremony at Muirfield Village Golf Club.
Jack Nicklaus and his wife take a moment to stop while navigating the golf cart at the American Lake Veterans Golf Course in Tacoma, Washington. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren)
