League: PGA Tour Sport: Golf Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Jack Nicklaus argues with referee during 1966 World Matchplay final

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 15, 2026, 12:00 PM

Last updated Sep 15, 2026

Jack Nicklaus argues with referee during 1966 World Matchplay final

Summary

During the 1966 World Matchplay final at Wentworth, Jack Nicklaus had a contentious exchange with referee Tony Duncan. The dispute arose when Nicklaus was denied a free drop after hitting his tee shot into the rough. He insisted that an advertising board obstructed his path to the green, but Duncan disagreed. The argument escalated, leading Duncan to resign mid-round, with Gerald Micklem taking over as referee. This incident remains one of the most controversial moments in the history of the tournament, overshadowing Player's victory over Nicklaus by a score of 6&4.

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By the Numbers

•Jack Nicklaus contested a ruling by referee Tony Duncan at Wentworth.
•Nicklaus was seeking relief from an obstruction on the 9th hole.
•Tony Duncan resigned mid-match due to the heated argument.
•Gary Player won the match against Nicklaus 6&4.
•The incident is considered one of the most controversial in the tournament's history.

Latest Updates

12:00 PMYahoo Sports — The controversial Gary Player and Jack Nicklaus incident at Wentworth which led to referee quitting mid-round

What they're saying

"
Gary Player went head-to-head with Jack Nicklaus at the World Matchplay final at Wentworth way back in 1966. At the time, Player and Nicklaus were the two best golfers in the world, and the final at Wentworth 60 years ago was an eagerly anticipated one.
— Yahoo Sports

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