For sixth straight year, Jack named "Most Powerful Person in Golf"

Jack Nicklaus, through his global reach in design and development, as well as the worldwide marketing and licensing of his golf and lifestyle brand, is atop Golf Inc. magazine’s coveted list of the “Most Powerful People in Golf” for a record-extending sixth consecutive year. The Golden Bear is the only golf industry figure who has ever been named to the No. 1 spot for more than three years.

Announced this week, Nicklaus tops the 2009 worldwide list of 35 individuals who were selected by a panel of editors for their ability to influence and impact the business of golf, be it the development of courses and communities, the operation of courses, the equipment used by golfers, or the rules and regulations of the game. The list includes the likes of Tiger Woods, PGA Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem and PGA of America CEO Joe Steranka.

Golf Inc. wrote that while the Golden Bear’s reign at No. 1 is unprecedented, “the fact is that he keeps adding to his legend, at the design table and in the business world. Despite a worldwide course development slowdown, Nicklaus’s design firm has over 40 courses in development around the globe… And he remains perhaps golf’s most respected spokesperson on a wide range of issues.”

Nicklaus Design has 40 courses under construction, and projects signed and under development in 45 countries, many of which are in countries Nicklaus Design has never been involved before, thus furthering Jack’s mission to introduce and grow the game worldwide. Among those key global regions is Asia, where Nicklaus Design has 10 courses under construction, including five in China, three in Korea and courses in Cambodia and India. The firm also has another 29 signed and active projects spread throughout Asia and the Pacific Rim.

During a year in which Nicklaus Design strengthened its position as the global leader in golf course design—with Nicklaus repeating as Architect of the Year in both Asia and Mexico—Jack served as Global Ambassador for golf’s united and successful campaign to be added to the Olympic Program, beginning in 2016.

In addition to the global licensing and branding of equipment, apparel and golf academies—a business that generates more than $250 million in global sales—the Nicklaus Companies has expanded its business to branding with golf courses tied into luxury communities worldwide that are part of the Jack Nicklaus Golf Club program.