Some golfers make you wonder how they didn’t walk away with a closet full of major trophies. They had the talent, the charisma, and often the heartbreak to go with it—but for whatever reason, the major wins never quite added up.
Whether it was bad timing, dominant competition, or just bad luck, these are the golfers we all wish had snagged a few more big ones. Because in a just world, they’d have way more than they do.
15. Adam Scott
The swing was pure, the demeanor was chill, and the 2013 Masters was magical. But with his talent, he should have at least three more green jackets.
14. Davis Love III
Always in the conversation, rarely in the winner’s circle at majors. His lone PGA Championship win doesn’t reflect how consistent and respected he was.
13. Henrik Stenson
His 2016 Open Championship duel with Phil Mickelson was legendary. But for someone with his ball-striking, one major feels like a crime.
12. Fred Couples
The definition of cool on the course, Freddie had every fan pulling for him. One Master’s win isn’t enough for such a smooth, consistent presence.
11. Rickie Fowler
The most likable guy on Tour, Rickie, has been close so many times it almost hurts. Still searching for that elusive major, and we’re all still rooting for him.
10. Colin Montgomerie
Eight-time European Tour Order of Merit winner and zero majors to show for it. He was always in contention; he never quite got it done when it counted most.
9. Steve Stricker
Stricker played the majors with grace as king of class and consistency, but never managed to win one. He was always around on Sunday, just never holding the trophy.
8. Lee Westwood
Lee flirted with major wins for what felt like decades. A mainstay on leaderboards, but fate always seemed to tap someone else on the shoulder.
7. Matt Kuchar
He’s been steady, funny, and respectable for years. But he’s also the guy who always finishes just behind the guy who wins.
6. Sergio Garcia
Yes, he finally broke through at the 2017 Masters, but it came way later than expected. For a guy with his flair and fire, one major feels light.
5. Luke Donald
World No. 1 with a short game that made other pros jealous. But the central column remained empty, and that never felt quite right.
4. Tony Finau
He’s got the length, the skill, and the likability factor to match. The major wins haven’t come yet, and it’s baffling to everyone.
3. Ian Poulter
He was a Ryder Cup monster and never lacked confidence. But the major win? Still missing, and the golf world wishes it wasn’t.
2. Jason Day
Injuries derailed what could’ve been a Hall of Fame major run. His 2015 PGA win was brilliant, but most fans feel he was destined for more.
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1. Phil Mickelson
Yes, he won six, which is no small feat. But with all those runner-ups—especially at the U.S. Open—it’s impossible not to think he should’ve had double digits.
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