Dominating golf in the late 1970s and early 1980s, Tom Watson is one of the greatest golfers of modern times. Watson is second only to Harry Vardon in British Open Championships with five wins. Performances overseas led to his immense popularity with citizens of the British Isles. His two Masters, along with his dramatic victory in the 1982 United States Open at Pebble Beach give him a total of 8 major championship victories. His fiery duels with Jack Nicklaus in the late 1970s made for excellent television, and in this, Watson contributed to the spread and popularity of golf. Watson was named Player of the Year for four consecutive years, and won the Vardon trophy for lowest scoring average three times.

Further Reading:

Feinstein, John. A Good Walk Spoiled. Boston, Little, Brown and Company, 1995.

Peper, George, editor, with Robin McMillan and James A. Frank.Golf in America: The First One Hundred Years. New York, Harry N. Abrams, 1988.