The pressure of golf’s final hole separates legends from contenders. Whether it’s a major championship or a career-defining moment, delivering under the most intense spotlight is what makes golf unforgettable. These five moments are etched in history for the nerves, precision, and drama displayed when everything was on the line
5. Justin Rose – 2013 U.S. Open at Merion
Rose’s approach on 18 was gutsy, he intentionally missed left to avoid trouble, then calmly pitched and two-putted for par. It wasn’t flashy, but it was the smartest, steeliest finish of his career, earning him his first major in one of the most pressure-filled scenarios.
4. Phil Mickelson – 2004 Masters
After years of coming up short in majors, Mickelson drained an 18-foot birdie putt on the 72nd hole to win his first green jacket. That putt snapped a 0-for-46 streak in majors and launched one of the most beloved eras in modern golf.
3. Jack Nicklaus – 1986 Masters
At 46 years old, Nicklaus birdied five of the last nine holes, including a dramatic birdie on the 17th and a steady par on 18 to post 65. His final stretch is considered one of the greatest Sunday charges in major history, and the final hole was the cherry on top.
2. Jon Rahm – 2023 Masters
Rahm closed with a brilliant par save on the 18th, sealing a four-shot win, but it was the composure on his final holes, including a crucial up-and-down on 17, that made his Masters victory feel inevitable. A performance marked by control, patience, and pure mental toughness.
1. Tiger Woods – 2008 U.S. Open at Torrey Pines
In classic Tiger fashion, Woods drilled a 12-foot birdie putt on the 72nd hole, on a torn ACL, to force a playoff with Rocco Mediate. The putt sent the crowd (and viewers worldwide) into a frenzy. He’d go on to win in sudden death, proving once again that pressure made him better.
Great finishes don’t always require a hole-out eagle or walk-off birdie. Sometimes, it’s about holding your nerve when everything is on the line. These five final-hole performances weren’t just about skill, they were about clutch, calculated greatness.
