Classic Ryder Cup moments, No 2: The Concession: 1969

Published on 12/09/2012 02:42

THE first Ryder Cup to end in a tie, this match at Royal Birkdale is remembered for Jack Nicklaus’s act of sportsmanship.

In the last singles match of the contest, the Golden Bear, making his debut in the event, was pitted against Tony Jacklin, who had already beaten him that morning.

The pair put on a show of riveting golf which drew the crowds, the lead switching between the two.

Both putting for par at the 18th with their own match and the entire contest all square, Nicklaus holed out, leaving Jacklin an awkward putt to avoid defeat. It was far from a gimme, but Nicklaus picked up his opponent’s marker and conceded. The duo walked off the green with arms around each other’s shoulders.

Nicklaus incurred the wrath of team-mates. Jacklin later described his act as “the greatest sporting gesture in golf” and it was to be the start of a lifelong friendship.