Golf might have a reputation for being a buttoned-up sport full of polite claps and whispered commentary, but it has some serious personality when it comes to nicknames. From quirky to downright hilarious, the PGA Tour and beyond have seen players blessed with monikers that are far more entertaining than your average scoreboard.
Some of these nicknames came from fans, others from locker room banter, but all have managed to stick in golf lore. Whether it’s poking fun at their style, their swing, or just their vibe, these names are a reminder that golf can be funny—intentionally or not.
15. The Big Fijian
Vijay Singh’s nickname is as straightforward as they come, but there’s something oddly charming about how literal it is. It sounds like the name of a mythical island warrior who also has a killer backswing.
14. Boom Boom
Fred Couples earned this nickname thanks to his explosive drives, and it somehow makes him sound like a golfer and a cartoon superhero. “Boom Boom” is the name that could only belong to someone cool enough to make golf look effortless.
13. The Mechanic
Miguel Ángel Jiménez is smooth, stylish, and mysterious, and his nickname perfectly reflects that. “The Mechanic” makes him sound like someone who could fix your car with one hand and crush a stogie with the other.
12. Aquaman
Gary Woodland got this one for diving into a pond to save a drowning bird, and it’s as legendary as it is random. Not every PGA pro gets a superhero title for an act of birdie-level kindness.
11. Popeye
Craig Parry had forearms that looked like he could bench press a golf cart, and the nickname “Popeye” just made sense. All he needed was a can of spinach in his golf bag to complete the look.
10. The Duck
Australian golfer Steve Elkington was dubbed “The Duck” for his waddle-like walk, and it’s impossible not to smile at that. It’s the perfect blend of endearing and slightly ridiculous.
9. The Walrus
Craig Stadler’s iconic mustache and stocky frame made this nickname a slam dunk. “The Walrus” is less a nickname and more a mascot moment waiting to happen.
8. Beef
Andrew Johnston’s nickname is “Beef,” Honestly, it tells you everything you need to know. He’s got the beard, the vibes, and the energy of someone you’d want to have a beer and burger with after 18 holes.
7. Peanut
Calvin Peete wasn’t exactly large in stature, which is where this sweet little nickname originated. The name makes you instantly root for someone before they even tee off.
6. The Smiling Assassin
Shingo Katayama’s nickname sounds like it belongs to a video game character or secret agent, not a golfer. But once you see the cowboy hat and grin, it weirdly fits.
5. Twinkletoes
Jesper Parnevik’s flashy fashion sense and elegant swing earned him this delightful nickname. It sounds more like a ballet dancer than a golfer, which makes it all the better.
4. The Golden Bear
Jack Nicklaus might have one of the most legendary nicknames in all sports. “The Golden Bear” sounds regal, powerful, and cuddly—just like Jack.
3. The Scientist
Bryson DeChambeau’s obsession with physics and analytics turned into this tongue-in-cheek title. It’s equal parts respect and roast, which makes it a top-tier nickname.
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2. The Mad Scientist
Not to be confused with “The Scientist,” this nickname belongs to Bryson, too, and it’s even better. It amplifies the chaos factor and leans into his quirky, swing-from-the-lab persona.
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1. Long John
John Daly’s nickname is simple, clever, and has stood the test of time. It captures his monster drives and larger-than-life personality in just two words.
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