He joined Roberto Clemente, Joe Louis, Jackie Robinson, Jesse Owens, Byron Nelson and Arnold Palmer as recipients. Palmer was in attendance as Nicklaus was honored during a ceremony inside the U.S. Capitol rotunda.
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CBS Sports commentator Jim Nantz was among those who spoke at the ceremony. He said Nicklaus’ 18th and final major title, a win at the 1986 Masters at age 46, was the Golden Bear’s greatest accomplishment.
Nicklaus, 75, has five children and 22 grandchildren. His eldest son, Jack Nicklaus II, told a story about a father and a son sharing a phone call. The younger Nicklaus said he talked for nearly 20 minutes recounting every shot he hit during a junior tournament, as his dad listened intently.
“When I was done, there was a short silence and I thought it was about time to hang up. Then he asked, ‘Jackie boy, would you like to know how your dad did? I just won the U.S. Open.’" Nicklaus won the Open four times.
His son also spoke about caddying for his father in the ‘86 Masters.
“It was his moment in time. A moment so earned, a moment so deserved,” Jackie said. His father wiped away tears.
The award, which requires an act of Congress, was co-sponsored by U.S. Sens. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, and Rob Portman, R-Ohio, who represent Nicklaus’ home state. The measure was signed into law by President Barack Obama last Dec. 16.
