It is impossible to certify the claim that Ben Hogan is the greatest golfer who ever lived. Certainly there have been others who have won more money and titles, others who have greater natural ability, and others who have more charisma. Yet none worked as hard, has overcome greater obstacles, or has been as dominant during his hey day as Ben Hogan.

Career in Jeopardy.

In 1949, while driving to a golf appointment, Hogan's car was hit head on by a bus. Remarkably, Hogan lived, but he suffered fractures of his left collarbone, pelvis, left ankle, and a rib. Doctors were certain that Hogan would never be able to play worldclass golf again; they questioned whether he would ever walk. Amazingly, less than a year and a half later, in great pain and his legs wrapped in bandages, Hogan again won the U.S. National Open...