British golfers have left their mark on the sport, especially in the Ryder Cup, and there are more rising stars in 2023.
As a British golfer, I polled my mates and looked through the annals of history *cough* Wikipedia, and came up with my ranking of the top players from England.
Here are the best British golfers:
- Sir Nick Faldo
- Rory McIlroy
- Colin Montgomerie
- Lee Westwood
- Ian Poulter
- Justin Rose
- Luke Donald
- Graeme McDowell
- Sandy Lyle
- Ian Woosnam
These exceptional golfers have significantly shaped the sport, captivating golf fans and raising the bar for British golf. I’ll also share the top British female golfers, up-and-coming golfers, and the top British golf tournaments.
1. Sir Nick Faldo
Sir Nick Faldo, now retired, is among the greatest English golfers ever.
What’s he known for?
- Six major championships
- 43 professional wins
- Held the #1 spot in the world rankings for an impressive 97 weeks
His first major championship victory came in 1987 at the Open Championship at Muirfield. Faldo’s triumph at the 1996 Masters, where he overcame a six-shot deficit on the final day, is an unforgettable moment in golf history.
Partnering with David Leadbetter to enhance his swing, Faldo’s dedication to the sport was evident.
With three Masters titles and three Open Championships, Faldo’s legacy as a champion golfer remains unmatched, inspiring countless future English professional golfers (and amateurs like myself) to follow in his footsteps.
Fun fact: He’s the only modern golfer ever knighted by the Queen, hence the “sir.”
What is Nick Faldo’s net worth? Read the full post to see how much money he’s made in his golfing career.
2. Rory McIlroy
Hailing from Northern Ireland, Rory McIlroy is one of the best golfers today.
What’s he known for?
- 18 PGA Tour wins
- 4 major championships
- Held the #1 spot in the world rankings for more than 100 weeks
With an astounding number of PGA Tour wins and major championships to his name, McIlroy has firmly established himself as one of the top golfers in the world. His major championship wins include:
- 2011 U.S. Open
- 2012 PGA Championship
- 2014 Open Championship
- 2014 PGA Championship
McIlroy’s impressive Ryder Cup record showcases his participation for Europe against the United States in multiple years, with Europe claiming victory in 2010, 2012, 2014, 2018, and 2023.
Fun fact: Rory’s first hole-in-one came when he was 10 years old.
What is Rory McIlroy’s net worth? Read the full post to see how much money he’s made in his golfing career.
3. Colin Montgomerie
Colin Montgomerie, a Scottish professional golfer, is a true legend in the world of golf.
What’s he known for?
- 8 European Tour Order of Merit Titles (7 were consecutive from 1993 to 1999)
- 42 total wins
- Captain of the 2010 Ryder Cup Team
- But no wins in the PGA Tour
Fun fact: Colin’s also written popular books like The Thinking Man’s Guide To Golf.
4. Lee Westwood
Lee Westwood, an English professional golfer, has built an illustrious career.
What’s he known for?
- 44 professional tournament wins around the world (two on the PGA Tour)
- Played on 7 winning Ryder Cup teams
- Runner-up at the Masters in 2010 and 2016
- World #1 in 2010 for 22 weeks, bumping Tiger Woods off
Although he has not yet secured a major championship win, Westwood has attained top-three finishes in all four majors, showcasing his incredible skill and consistency in the sport.
Valued at $40 million, Westwood’s success in golf is unquestionably merited.
Fun fact: Westwood was appointed by the Queen as an OBE (Order of the British Empire). Not quite a knight, but still pretty good.
5. Ian Poulter
Ian Poulter, an English professional golfer and European Tour golfer, has made a name for himself with his exceptional performances on both the PGA and European Tours.
What’s he known for?
- 3 PGA Tour wins
- 2 World Golf Championships
- PGA Recognition Award
- 12 European Tour victories
- Ranked as high as #5 in the world
Starting his golf journey at the age of four, Poulter has accumulated accolades, including Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year in 2000 and the WGC Accenture World Matchplay Championship.
He’s also known for his colorful clothing and brash temperament. He’s currently playing on the LIV circuit.
Fun fact: Poulter is nicknamed the “Postman” for his impressive Ryder Cup performances.
What’s Ian Poulter’s net worth? Read the full post to see how much money he’s made in his golf career.
6. Justin Rose
South African-born English golfer Justin Rose has enjoyed a successful career.
What’s he known for?
- 10 PGA Tour wins
- 1 major championship
- 6 Ryder Cups
- Olympic Gold Medalist
- Ranked #1 in the world in 2018
In 2013, Rose won the U.S. Open at Merion Golf Club, becoming the first Englishman to win the prestigious tournament in 43 years.
Justin Rose has indisputably established himself as a top golfer globally. His impressive achievements and dedication to the sport have inspired countless aspiring golfers to pursue their dreams.
Fun fact: He’s won more money than any other golfer in the European Tour ever.
What’s Justin Rose’s net worth? Read the full post to see how much money he’s made in his golf career.
7. Luke Donald
Luke Donald, an English professional golfer, has made his mark in the golfing world.
What’s he known for?
- 5 PGA Tour wins
- 4 Ryder Cups
- Historic double win of both the PGA and European Tours money lists in 2011
- Ranked #1 for 56 weeks
His incredible feat double win solidified Donald’s position as one of the top English golfers and one of the best golfers in the world, period.
Valued at $40 million, Donald’s golf course success is undoubtedly hard-earned. As he continues to compete at the highest level, there’s no doubt that Donald will continue to inspire and entertain golf fans around the world.
Fun fact: Luke earned a degree in art theory from Northeastern University in Chicago.
8. Graeme McDowell
Graeme McDowell, a Northern Irish golfer, has had an impressive career.
What’s he known for?
- 4 PGA Tour wins
- 11 European Tour victories
- 4 Ryder Cups
- 1 major championship
McDowell’s major championship win came in 2010 when he triumphed at the U.S. Open at Pebble Beach. His success on the course has also earned him a notable position on the PGA Tour money list.
McDowell’s achievements in golf attest to his skill, resolve, and fervor for the sport. With a bright future ahead of him, golf fans can look forward to seeing even more exceptional performances from this talented golfer.
Fun fact: Graeme’s also a passionate chef, professional golf course designer, and good friends with Rory McIlroy.
9. Sandy Lyle
Scottish golfer Sandy Lyle has had a remarkable career as well.
What he’s known for?
- Winning two major championships
- Spending 167 weeks in the top-10 of the Official World Golf Ranking
- Winning the 1985 Open Championship
- Winning the 1988 Masters Tournament
- 5 Ryder Cups
- Ranked as high as #3 in the world
Lyle’s induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame in May 2012 is a testament to his incredible achievements and contributions to golf. His legacy as a champion golfer will continue to inspire future generations of golfers for years to come.
Fun fact: Although Sandy is thought of as a Scot, he was actually born in England.
10. Ian Woosnam
Ian Woosnam, a Welsh golfer, has enjoyed a successful career.
What’s he known for?
- 2 PGA Tour wins
- 1 major championship
- 8 Ryder Cups
- Ranked as high as #1 for 50 weeks
Woosnam’s major championship victory came at the 1991 Masters Tournament, where he became the first Welshman to win a major.
Fun fact: Ian claims that bailing hail as a kid gave his swing the renowned power.
Trailblazing Women in British Golf
The history of British golf is not complete without acknowledging the trailblazing women who have made significant contributions to the sport.
Laura Davies and Lucy Robson, two famous English golfers, have shattered barriers and inspired countless young women to pursue their dreams in golf.
Their notable achievements and steadfast dedication to the sport have made a lasting impact on the golfing world.
Laura Davies
English golfer Laura Davies has enjoyed an illustrious career with the following achievements:
- 20 LPGA Tour wins
- Former World Number 1
- Member of the World Golf Hall of Fame
- 87 tournament wins worldwide, including 45 on the Ladies European Tour and 20 on the LPGA Tour
Rising Stars in British Golf
While celebrating the accomplishments of British golfing legends, we should also recognize the emerging stars ready to uphold British golf’s legacy of excellence.
Tommy Fleetwood
Tommy Fleetwood, an English golfer from Southport, has already made a name for himself with his impressive performances in major championships and European Tour events.
Despite not having won a major championship, Fleetwood’s incredible skill and consistency have earned him a place among the top golfers in the world.
Fleetwood’s commitment and passion for golf have not only brought him multiple titles but also earned him the admiration and respect of global golf fans. Fleetwood will continue to inspire and entertain golf fans around the world.
Tyrrell Hatton
Tyrrell Hatton, the highest-ranked English golfer in the 2022 PGA Championship with a World Ranking of 23, has already made a significant impact on the golfing world.
With multiple victories on both the European and PGA Tours, Hatton’s prowess on the golf course is undeniable.
Hatton’s remarkable achievements, including his significant win at the BMW PGA Championship, have not only garnered him many accolades and awards but also motivated numerous young English PGA golfers to chase their dreams in the sport.
With a promising career ahead of him, Hatton is undoubtedly a rising star to watch in the world of golf. Hatton’s one to watch.
Matt Fitzpatrick
Matt Fitzpatrick, an English golfer, has already achieved multiple European Tour wins and is considered a promising talent in the golf world. With a top-50 world ranking, Fitzpatrick’s potential for greatness is evident.
Fitzpatrick’s notable accomplishments, including his U.S. Open win, have not only brought him many accolades and awards but also encouraged numerous young golfers to follow their dreams in the sport.
With a bright future ahead of him, Fitzpatrick is undoubtedly a rising star to watch in the world of golf.
The Impact of British Golfers on the Ryder Cup
British golfers have been crucial to the European team’s success at the Ryder Cup.
Golfers like Rory McIlroy, Ian Poulter, and Lee Westwood have not only earned their place in Ryder Cup history but also inspired future generations of golfers to strive for success in this prestigious event.
British Golf Courses and Tournaments
The United Kingdom is home to a wealth of stunning golf courses and prestigious tournaments that showcase the rich golfing heritage of the country. Some of the notable courses include:
- St. Andrews (Old Course)
- Royal County Down (Championship Course)
- Royal Troon Golf Club
- Royal Birkdale
These courses at the country club provide a fascinating glimpse into British golf’s history and culture.
Major golf championships such as The British Open (The Open Championship), the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, and the PGA Open Series further demonstrate the importance of golf in the United Kingdom and its enduring legacy as a beloved sport.
FAQ
How many British golfers have won a major?
Seven British golfers have won a major in the past 30 years, including legendary players such as Nick Faldo and Sandy Lyle. These incredible achievements serve as a testament to the immense talent and dedication of British golfers in the world of golf.
How many British golfers have won the Masters?
Four British golfers have won the Masters: Nick Faldo twice, Sandy Lyle in 1988, Ian Woosnam in 1991, and Danny Willett in 2016. These incredible victories have solidified the reputation of British golfers as formidable competitors on the global golf stage.
Has an Englishman ever won the Masters?
Yes, English golfer Danny Willett won the Masters in 2016, marking a significant achievement for British golf. Willett’s victory at the prestigious tournament has inspired countless aspiring golfers to pursue their dreams in the sport.
Sam has been playing golf for over 20 years and founded Impact Golfer. As a teenager, he discovered his love for the game using his grandad’s clubs, including a wooden driver. As a golf obsessive, Sam plays whenever possible, regularly competing in matchplay with his friends and in tournaments at his local club. He's fortunate to have a close friend who is a club pro– he has tested almost every type of equipment on the market (no freebies yet).
Sam has a handicap index of 13 and likes playing at the Metro Golf Centre near his home in London. He putts with a Taylormade Spider because Rory uses it but regrets selling an old Scotty Cameron putter on eBay.
- Best score: 94
- Favorite club: TaylorMade Stealth Driver
- Favorite putter: Bought a TaylorMade Spider because Rory uses it, but spend most of my time on greens yearning for the Scotty Cameron I sold on eBay.
- Favorite food at the turn: Baguette. Sausages. Bacon. HP Sauce.
