Golf's greatest moments shaped by regrets and missed chances
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 18, 2026, 1:36 PM
Last updated Aug 18, 2026

Golf history often hinges on key shots and decisions, as highlighted in various notable tournaments. Examples include Tom Watson’s 2009 near miss at Turnberry, when a crucial shot went awry, and Sam Snead's 1939 U.S. Open failure at Philadelphia Country Club due to a wrong strategic choice. Other significant moments discussed include Arnold Palmer's missed putt in the 1966 U.S. Open and I.K. Kim's missed one-foot putt in the 2012 Kraft Nabisco, reflecting how a single stroke can define careers. These instances showcase the emotional weight of regret, sometimes leading to broader consequences beyond just title losses. The exploration of missed opportunities in the game resonates with many golfers and fans alike.
- •Tom Watson missed a key shot at the 2009 Open Championship.
- •Sam Snead made a triple-bogey on the final hole in 1939.
- •Arnold Palmer collapsed in the 1966 U.S. Open after leading by seven strokes.
- •I.K. Kim missed a crucial putt in the 2012 Kraft Nabisco playoff.
- •Regrets from historical decisions continue to shape player legacies.
- 1:36 PMYahoo Sports — ‘We Don’t Need No Stinkin’ Mulligans’: Golf’s greatest played without regrets
"Both good and bad, a golfer’s life can often be defined by 'what might have been.'
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