Golden Oldies: Tom Watson, Greg Norman, Jack Nicklaus and more pros who defied their age

October 05, 2011
1 of 12 Robert Beck/SI

Tom Watson, 59, nearly won the 2009 British Open, but he's not the only player in the twilight of his career to make a run at a major. Here are some other old timers who made a splash late in the game. Tom Watson, 59: Lost in a playoff to Stewart Cink at the 2009 British Open.
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2 of 12 John Biever/SI

Greg Norman, 53: Tied for third at 2008 British Open.
3 of 12 Amy Sancetta/AP

Jack Nicklaus, 58: Tied for sixth at the 1998 Masters.
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4 of 12 John Iacono/SI

Hale Irwin, 45: Won the 1990 U.S. Open.
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5 of 12 John Iacono/SI

Raymond Floyd, 43: Won the 1986 U.S. Open.
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6 of 12 Michael O'Bryon

Jack Nicklaus, 46: Won the 1986 Masters.
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7 of 12 Francis Golden

Julius Boros, 48: Won the 1968 PGA Championship.
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8 of 12 Diego Goldberg/SI

Roberto de Vicenzo, 44: Won the 1967 British Open.
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9 of 12 AP

Ben Hogan, 54: Tied for 10th at 1967 Masters.
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10 of 12 USGA

Ted Ray, right, 43: Won the 1920 U.S. Open.
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11 of 12 AP Photo

Harry Vardon, 44: Won the 1914 British Open.
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12 of 12 USGA

Old Tom Morris, left, 46: Won the 1867 British Open.

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