Barbara Nicklaus named 2025 Memorial Tournament honoree

Barbara Nicklaus, first lady of golf, named 2025 Memorial Tournament honoree. Emotional moment as she receives Captains Club award. Viral-worthy!

In a heartwarming announcement, the 2025 Memorial Tournament has chosen Barbara Nicklaus, the esteemed first lady of golf, as the honoree for the 50th edition of the event at Muirfield Village Golf Club in Dublin, Ohio. This prestigious recognition comes in the form of the annual Captains Club award, making Barbara the first non-golfer to join the ranks of 84 previous recipients.

Expressing her gratitude and overwhelming emotion upon receiving the news, Barbara shared her deep connection to the tournament that has been a cornerstone of her family's life. Married to golf legend Jack Nicklaus for 64 years, the couple's journey began in Ohio, where they both attended Ohio State University. Barbara, a Columbus native, and Jack, from Upper Arlington, have built a legacy intertwined with the Memorial Tournament since its inception in 1976.

As Jack, affectionately known as the Golden Bear, lauded Barbara's unwavering support and contributions behind the scenes over five decades at Muirfield Village Golf Club, he was visibly moved during a heartfelt moment captured on the CBS broadcast. The couple's enduring partnership and Barbara's selfless dedication to the tournament's success have finally received the recognition they deserve.

Barbara's journey from a nursing student at OSU to a beloved figure in the golf community reflects her commitment to service and family. Alongside Jack, she raised five children and now enjoys the company of 24 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Her accolades, including the prestigious Bob Jones Award from the USGA in 2015 and the PGA of America Distinguished Service Award in 2019, showcase her impact beyond the fairways.

In honoring Barbara Nicklaus as the 2025 Memorial Tournament honoree, the Captains Club celebrates a remarkable woman whose influence transcends the world of golf. Her story is a testament to resilience, dedication, and the power of unwavering support in shaping a lasting legacy.