An examination of the most improbable and dramatic reversals of fortune in the history of golf's four major championships. This list highlights moments where players overcame significant deficits or disastrous rounds to secure victory, showcasing resilience and skill under extreme pressure.
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Although not a major championship, this moment is often cited in major context due to its intensity. Leonard hit three consecutive birdies on the back nine at Brookline to erase a 10-6 deficit, sparking one of the greatest team comebacks in golf history. It remains a defining moment of mental fortitude in international play.
Westwood led by five shots after 54 holes at Turnberry but shot a final-round 75 to lose to Pablo Larrazábal. It is widely considered one of the most heartbreaking missed opportunities in major history, highlighting how quickly momentum can shift in championship golf.
Watson started three shots behind Jack Nicklaus on the final day and led by one going into the 37th hole. A double bogey and Nicklaus's birdie ended his bid, creating one of the most dramatic finishes ever witnessed, though ultimately a narrow defeat rather than a full comeback win.
Els rallied from six shots back after the third round to win by one stroke over Tom Lehman. His aggressive play and consistency on the links course demonstrated exceptional adaptability, marking his first major victory and establishing him as a top contender in the game.
Woods played through severe knee injuries and leg pain to defeat Rocco Mediate in a 36-hole playoff. Despite not trailing significantly, his ability to maintain composure and physical resilience under such duress is regarded as one of the greatest mental comebacks in major history.
Lyle overcame a three-shot deficit with two holes to play against Craig Stadler. He secured birdie par saves on the final two holes to win his first major, showcasing a clutch performance that stunned the golf world and highlighted his ability to perform under pressure.
Crenshaw won in a playoff against Craig Stadler after a three-hole aggregate score tie. His victory was particularly dramatic because he had trailed by strokes earlier in the round and relied on crucial putts down the stretch to secure his second Masters title.
Nelson defeated Tom Watson in a 36-hole playoff after a scoreless tie at the end of regulation. His victory came after a challenging round in difficult conditions, marking his first major win and demonstrating resilience in the face of a rising star in Watson.
Though a loss, Watson's charge from four shots down on the final day remains iconic. He played exceptional golf but fell short to Jack Nicklaus, illustrating a near-miraculous comeback that energized fans and defined an era of golf competition.
Els rallied from four shots down after 54 holes to win against David Duval. His final-round 67 was one of the lowest scores in championship history, showcasing his ability to elevate his game when it mattered most in a high-stakes major environment.
Greg Norman held a three-shot lead but collapsed on the final day, losing to Ernie Els. While a loss, Norman's inability to hold the lead despite having it is often cited alongside comebacks, as Els' victory was a direct result of Norman's unraveling.
Mickelson came from behind in the final round to defeat Retief Goosen by one stroke. His victory was notable for its consistency and ability to handle pressure, marking his first major title and establishing him as a major-winning contender.
Singh won by five strokes after a dominant final round, but his path included overcoming early struggles in the tournament. His performance demonstrated superior ball-striking ability and mental toughness, leading to his first major victory and a significant rise in world rankings.
Watson won in a playoff against Louis Oosthuizen after a dramatic final round. His ability to stay calm and execute crucial shots under pressure secured his first major title, highlighting his unique putting and wedge skills in high-pressure situations.
Spieth had a six-shot lead but surrendered it, though he did not win. This event is included for its shock value in major history, as it highlighted the fragility of leads and the potential for dramatic shifts in momentum during major championships.
McDowell defeated Lee Westwood by one stroke in a final-round battle. His victory was significant as it ended the UK's drought in winning the U.S. Open, showcasing resilience after a challenging tournament and securing his first major title.
McIlroy had a four-shot lead but shot a final-round 82, losing to Darren Clarke. This remains one of the most shocking moments in major history, illustrating how quickly a lead can be lost and the psychological challenges faced in major championships.
Clarke capitalized on McIlroy's collapse to win his first major title. His performance highlighted the importance of staying composed when opponents falter, securing a historic victory at Congressional Country Club.
Rahm won by a single stroke over Brooks Koepka in a tightly contested final round. His victory showcased mental strength and precision, marking his second major title and solidifying his status as a top player in the sport.
Scheffler dominated the field by seven shots, but his victory was built on a steady recovery from earlier rounds. His performance highlighted consistency and strategic play, securing his first major title and beginning a successful era in major championships.