There are some golfers who just have that special something—whether it’s their underdog energy, undeniable charm, or the way they carried themselves on and off the course. These are the players fans stuck with through the highs and lows, cheering every birdie and brushing off every bogey right alongside them.
This list isn’t about the most dominant or decorated—it’s about the ones who tugged at our heartstrings. From generational icons to lovable grinders, here are 20 golfers fans never stopped rooting for.
20. Rickie Fowler
With his bright outfits and easygoing smile, Rickie was impossible not to like. Even when the wins didn’t come easily, fans stayed loyal to his journey.
19. Tom Watson
He made golf feel poetic, especially when nearly winning The Open at 59. His sportsmanship and class kept fans rooting for him no matter the leaderboard.
18. Ian Poulter
The Ryder Cup brought out his inner superhero, and fans lived for it. His fiery passion and animated celebrations always kept the crowd on his side.
17. Corey Pavin
He wasn’t the longest or flashiest, but he got the job done with grit. Fans appreciated his blue-collar mentality and fearless approach.
16. Angel Cabrera
With his swagger and power game, Cabrera became a cult favorite. When he was in the mix at the majors, you just couldn’t look away.
15. Matt Kuchar
Always smiling and seemingly happy to be there, Kuchar brought good vibes to every round. Fans connected with his steady game and dad-joke energy.
14. Fred Couples
Freddie was the ultimate laid-back legend. His smooth swing and cool demeanor made him a lifelong fan favorite.
13. Darren Clarke
From heartbreak to triumph, Clarke’s career was a rollercoaster. Fans stayed loyal through it all and rejoiced when he finally won The Open.
12. Lee Trevino
![Dec 21, 2024; Orlando, Florida, [USA]; Lee Trevino tees off during the PNC Championship at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images](https://thequickreport.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Untitled-design-2025-05-27T204024.011-1024x658.png)
Trevino’s personality was as electric as his game. Fans loved how he made golf entertaining without ever taking himself too seriously.
11. Payne Stewart
With his throwback style and emotional U.S. Open win, Stewart left a lasting impression. Fans admired his grace, swagger, and sense of tradition.
10. John Daly
You never knew what you were going to get with Daly, and that was part of the magic. Between the booming drives and wild outfits, fans couldn’t help but root for him.
9. Bernhard Langer
Langer quietly went about his business, and fans respected the heck out of it. Even into his senior years, he kept grinding and winning.
8. José María Olazábal
He played with passion and heart, especially when representing Europe. Fans admired his resilience and humble demeanor.
7. Jordan Spieth
Spieth’s boy-next-door vibe and emotional play won fans over early. Even when his game dipped, the support never wavered.
6. Vijay Singh
Vijay let his clubs do the talking, and fans respected his relentless work ethic. He wasn’t flashy, but he was always in the hunt.
5. Colin Montgomerie
He never won a major, but fans loved his consistency and personality. His Ryder Cup heroics kept him beloved across the pond.
4. Seve Ballesteros
Seve’s creativity and flair made golf feel like an art form. Fans were mesmerized by his charisma and emotional play.
3. Arnold Palmer
Arnie had an entire army for a reason. His charm, boldness, and connection with fans made him one of golf’s most beloved figures.
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2. Phil Mickelson
Lefty was always full of drama—in the best way. His fearless style and fan-friendly antics kept the cheers loud for decades.
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1. Tiger Woods
Through injuries, comebacks, and everything in between, fans never gave up on Tiger. He inspired generations and created moments that defined the sport.
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