Who Won the Most Masters Tournaments? Nicklaus Leads

By Sarah Miller · April 30, 2044

Jack Nicklaus won the most Masters Tournament titles with 6 victories in 1963, 1965, 1966, 1972, 1975, and 1986, making him the most successful golfer in the history of the event.

Who Has Won the Most Masters Tournaments?

The Masters Tournament, held annually at Augusta National Golf Club, is one of golf’s four major championships. Among all elite players, Jack Nicklaus stands alone with the most green jackets—six wins over three decades. His record-setting performance includes back-to-back wins and a historic victory at age 46 in 1986, widely regarded as one of the greatest moments in golf history.

Jack Nicklaus: The Golden Bear's Mastery at Augusta

Jack Nicklaus, often referred to as the "Golden Bear," dominated the Masters like no other. His combination of strategic play, mental toughness, and consistency on the greens made him a force at Augusta National.

Key Highlights of Nicklaus' Masters Wins

First win: 1963 (age 23)
Consecutive wins: 1965, 1966
Last win: 1986 (age 46)—the oldest Masters champion ever
Total top-10 finishes: 15
Final round in 1986: 65, overcoming a six-shot deficit

Other Multiple-Time Masters Champions

While Nicklaus holds the record, several legendary golfers have also claimed multiple green jackets:

Tiger Woods – 5 wins (1997, 2001, 2002, 2005, 2019)
Arnold Palmer – 4 wins (1958, 1960, 1962, 1964)
Jimmy Demaret, Gary Player, Nick Faldo, Phil Mickelson – 3 wins each

Tiger Woods’ 2019 victory was especially iconic, marking his return from injury and personal challenges, and considered one of the most emotional comebacks in sports history.

Detailed Masters Champions Record Table

Golfer	Wins	Years Won	Ages at Victory
Jack Nicklaus	6	1963, 1965, 1966, 1972, 1975, 1986	23, 25, 26, 32, 35, 46
Tiger Woods	5	1997, 2001, 2002, 2005, 2019	21, 25, 26, 29, 43
Arnold Palmer	4	1958, 1960, 1962, 1964	28, 30, 32, 34
Jimmy Demaret	3	1940, 1947, 1950	30, 37, 40
Gary Player	3	1961, 1974, 1978	25, 38, 42
Nick Faldo	3	1989, 1990, 1996	32, 33, 39
Phil Mickelson	3	2004, 2006, 2010	33, 35, 39

Table data source:Masters Official Site, PGA Tour

The data shows Jack Nicklaus not only has the highest number of wins but also the longest span between first and last victories—23 years. His 1986 win at age 46 remains unmatched in terms of longevity and late-career excellence. Tiger Woods follows closely in legacy, with five wins across 22 years, highlighting sustained dominance.

Why Jack Nicklaus' Record Stands Out

Nicklaus’ mastery at Augusta stems from his course management, putting precision, and ability to perform under pressure. Unlike many players who peak early, Nicklaus succeeded across generations—from Arnold Palmer’s era to competing against Tom Watson and Seve Ballesteros.

He holds the record for most top-10 finishes (15)
Played in 50 consecutive Masters (1959–2008)
His 1986 final round of 65 is legendary for its clutch birdies on the back nine

Frequently Asked Questions About Masters Tournament Wins

Who has won the most Masters golf tournaments in history?

Jack Nicklaus has won the most Masters golf tournaments with 6 victories, more than any other player in the tournament’s history.

How many green jackets does Tiger Woods have?

Tiger Woods has won 5 Masters Tournament titles, earning him 5 green jackets, placing him second all-time behind Jack Nicklaus.

Has anyone ever won three Masters in a row?

No golfer has ever won three consecutive Masters titles. The closest were Jack Nicklaus (1965, 1966) and Nick Faldo (1989, 1990), each winning back-to-back.

Who was the oldest Masters champion?

Jack Nicklaus is the oldest Masters champion, winning in 1986 at the age of 46. His final-round 65 remains one of the most memorable performances in golf.

How many players have won multiple Masters titles?

As of 2025, 17 players have won multiple Masters titles. Jack Nicklaus leads with 6, followed by Tiger Woods with 5, and six others with 3 or more wins.