Who Are The 50 Best Golfers in History?

Jul 18, 2015; St Andrews, GBR; Flags are at full stretch as the high winds suspend play during The 144rd Open Championship – Third Round at The Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews – Old Course. Mandatory Credit: Steve Flynn-USA TODAY Sports

49. Willie Anderson

Anderson emigrated to the U.S. with his father in 1896. Shortly after coming to the U.S., he began entering golf tournaments. He played in 14 straight US Opens and was the first professional to win four U.S. Opens.

He won in 1901, 1903, 1904 and 1905. Those who matched that total were Bobby Jones, Ben Hogan and Jack Nicklaus. Anderson is still the only man to win three consecutive US Open titles.

In the 1901 US Open Anderson was involved in the first playoff in that tournament history against Alex Smith. In 1902 he was the first player to break 300 for 72 holes in the United States. In the 1903 US Open there was another playoff and Anderson defeated Davie Brown.

In 1904 Anderson became the first two-time winner of the Western Open. He died at a young age of epilepsy.

Next: No. 48 - Willie Park, Sr.