Explore the history of The Open | The Journey to The 150th Open

The 95th Open | 1966 Muirfield

Open glory gives Nicklaus a moment to savour

After completing the career Grand Slam with a long-awaited first triumph at The Open, an elated Jack Nicklaus needed a moment to let it all sink in.

Jack Nicklaus at the presentation following The Open in 1966

1965

1967

Nicklaus was already a five-time Major champion upon his arrival at Muirfield in 1966, but the Claret Jug had proven elusive.

Having finished third in 1963 and second in 1964, Nicklaus was not to be denied again.

He pipped Doug Sanders and Dave Thomas by a single stroke, before delivering a memorable victory speech in which he appeared momentarily lost for words as the magnitude of his victory hit home.