Jack & Barbara Nicklaus 2026 LEGACY AWARD
FROM ROBERT TRENT JONES SOCIETY
Jack and Barbara Nicklaus Receive 5th Annual Robert Trent Jones Legacy Award
The Robert Trent Jones Society has announced that Jack and Barbara Nicklaus are the recipients of the 2026 Society Legacy Award, recognizing their extraordinary lifetime contributions to golf, their enduring support for the game’s traditions and values, and their far-reaching commitment to philanthropy.
The Legacy Award was established in the name of Robert Trent Jones, Sr. to honor individuals whose lives and work have helped expand, strengthen, and elevate the game of golf. Jack Nicklaus, whose record 18 professional major championships and global design influence have shaped generations of players and courses, and Barbara Nicklaus, widely admired for her leadership, grace, and charitable impact, embody the spirit of the award.
“The Legacy Award was established in Mr. Jones’ name to honor individuals whose lifetime is committed to expanding the game we all love,” said David Leigh, President of the Robert Trent Jones Society. “It is with great pleasure that we honor Jack and Barbara Nicklaus for their countless contributions to the game, on and off the course. Jack’s accomplishments speak for itself, and Barbara’s behind-the-scenes efforts have raised hundreds of millions for worthy causes. They are true champions in the game of life.”
In a video presentation attended by Society officers and Club Delegates, Jack and Barbara reflected on how they got involved in pediatric charities, reminisced about his experiences at Firestone and Barbara’s association with other tour wives.
Jack also talked fondly of their relationship with RTJ Sr. and his wife, Ione, and their friendship around Coral Ridge, RTJ’s Florida home.
An edited video of the meeting will be available on the website shortly.
The Robert Trent Jones Society preserves and promotes the legacy of Robert Trent Jones, Sr., whose design work helped define modern golf through iconic courses and redesigns, including Bellerive, Firestone, Hazeltine, and The Broadmoor. The Society’s Legacy Award has previously honored individuals whose accomplishments and service have made a lasting contribution to golf including Al Geiberger, Lee Trevino, Hollis Stacy, and Gary Player.