Ranking The Top 5 Clutch Performances on the Final Hole in Golf History

2022 Masters champion Jon Rahm holds up the trophy after the final round of The Masters golf tournament on Apr 9, 2023.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK

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.

Michael Penix Jr. Seeks Guidance from Falcons Legend Matt Ryan as He Prepares for QB1 Role

Jan 5, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (9) throws a pass against the Carolina Panthers in the third quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Brett Davis-Imagn Images

It’s safe to say that the Atlanta Falcons’ bold investment in Kirk Cousins is a Failure. While Cousins is technically still on the roster, all signs point to him either being traded or accepting a backup role. Because the Falcons have already made it clear: the future is now, and Michael Penix Jr. is their guy. After a rookie season that saw Penix get his feet wet, 775 yards, three touchdowns, and three picks across five games, the 2025 season is shaping up to be his true NFL debut as a full-time starter. But stepping into the QB1 role isn’t just about stats. It’s about leadership, presence, and understanding the immense pressure that comes with leading a franchise. Penix Taps Into Matt Ryan’s Wisdom That’s why he reached out to a name every Falcons fan knows and respects, Matt Ryan. “I spoke to Matt Ryan and had a good conversation with him,” Penix shared. “Learning how to be a pro each and every day and how his process went… He definitely gave me some good things.” Ryan, who led the Falcons to a Super Bowl appearance in 2016 and won NFL MVP that same season. This is arguably the most accomplished quarterback in franchise history. His experience navigating the highs and lows of the league and the Atlanta media spotlight is priceless for a young QB like Penix. Penix added that Ryan walked him through what it takes to grow into a true leader during those early years. “This is my second year coming into it and my first year starting,” Penix said. “He talked to me about his times during that time and how he got to where he ended up.” Now It’s Time to Deliver for The Falcons For Falcons fans, it’s encouraging to see Penix take ownership of his development and seek guidance from someone who’s worn the same jersey and carried the same expectations. The talent is there, Penix has a cannon of an arm and a strong football IQ. But becoming the face of the franchise requires more than ability. It requires maturity, humility, and a hunger to learn. As Atlanta turns the page on the Kirk Cousins chapter and places its future in the hands of Michael Penix Jr., the mentorship of Matt Ryan might just be the foundation that helps him thrive under the pressure.

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