The Golf 100: A Comprehensive Look at Golf’s Greatest Players
In his intriguing book, The Golf 100: A spirited ranking of the greatest players of all time, author Michael Arkush presents a refreshingly unique analysis of golf’s top 100 players, delving into their remarkable achievements and personal stories. His narrative intertwines moments of glory and hardship, offering insights into the lives behind the legends of the sport.
About the Author
Michael Arkush, with a prolific career covering sports, has previously penned several bestsellers, including The Last Season, in collaboration with Phil Jackson, and The Big Fight with Sugar Ray Leonard. In The Golf 100, Arkush utilizes his vast experience, combining statistical rigor with compelling storytelling to present a vivid picture of the golfing landscape.
Inclusion of Diverse Golfers
Arkush’s collection does not restrict itself to male golfers or a particular era; he celebrates the contributions of both men and women, as well as international players. He acknowledges the complexity of ranking these athletes but emphasizes that their stories are too significant to overlook.
Methodology Behind the Rankings
While numerous sports outlets have released their own rankings—such as GolfDay, Golf Digest, and various fan-generated lists—Arkush’s approach is distinctive. He assigns importance to performance in the four major championships: the U.S. Open, Masters, British Open, and PGA Championship, which he argues feature the strongest competition. Despite relying on data-driven analysis, Arkush also includes subjective elements that reflect a golfer’s cultural impact and legacy.
Historical Perspectives
The book traces golf’s evolution, beginning with earlier 20th-century icons. Among them is Francis Ouimet, whose victory in the 1913 U.S. Open at just 20 years old was monumental, defeating established luminary Harry Vardon. Arkush illustrates how Ouimet’s achievement was pivotal not only for his career but also for the popularity of golf in America.
Anecdotes and Personal Journeys
A standout profile featured in the book is that of John McDermott, ranked at No. 100. As the first American to win the U.S. Open in 1911 at the age of 19, McDermott’s life was marked by remarkable highs and devastating lows. Arkush recounts how McDermott’s brashness often led to conflict and downfall, resulting in personal struggles that culminated in his institutionalization in 1916. His story is a poignant reminder of the fragile nature of success.
Women in Golf
Arkush ensures that women golfers are represented in this ranking, spotlighting pioneers like Mickey Wright, who boasts an impressive record of 82 tournament victories, including 13 major championships. Her swing was once hailed by esteemed golfer Ben Hogan as the finest, irrespective of gender. This inclusion reflects the expanding understanding of greatness within the sport’s narrative.
The Foundation of Golf History
The historical context provided in The Golf 100 is crucial, featuring the early days of golf, dominated by figures like Old Tom Morris and his son Young Tom Morris, who won the British Open multiple times in the 19th century. Their influence showcases the deep roots of golf and its progression through time.
Reflections on Legacy
In closing, Arkush presents a thoughtful perspective on the difficulty of comparing golfers across different eras. Drawing from golfing legend Bobby Jones, he notes, “I think we must agree that all a man can do is beat the people who are around at the same time he is.” This sentiment encapsulates the essence of sports—a celebration of both individual achievement and shared history.
With 366 pages dedicated to exploring the lives and careers of the best in golf, The Golf 100 is more than a simple ranking. It is a comprehensive narrative that connects past legends to contemporary stars, allowing readers to appreciate the rich tapestry of golf’s heritage.