Jack Nicklaus has led the tributes to Brian Barnes and insisted that”a lot of” was made of the Scot beating him twice in one day in the 1975 Ryder Cup.
Barnes, who passed away on Tuesday in age 74 after a struggle with cancer, won 23 tournaments as a professional and remains the only player to defend the Open title 1995 and 1996 at Royal Portrush.
But the Scot is famous for his two Ryder Cup singles strikes Nicklaus in Laurel Valley in 1975, after up a 4&2 triumph in the morning using a 2&1 victory at the day over the Golden Bear, who had been reigning Masters and PGA champion at that time.
But, Nicklaus described Barnes as a”tough competitor” and theorized that the 2 wins amid a significant defeat for Europe were no surprise, because he paid a glowing tribute to social media.
The 18-time important champion wrote:”Barbara & I learned by Brian Barnes’ daughter, Didi, that her father & our buddy Brian had lost his battle with cancer & passed. Her voice, amazing & reassuring, stated if she had been to reduce her father, it had been close to a”model passing” as any loving family could want.
“‘Barnesy’ was an absolute character. Much entertainer as golfer. Wasn’t uncommon to see him put dark socks with shorts, tee off with pipe into his mouth & indicate his ball using a can!
“To be frank, a lot of has been produced of Barnesy beating me two on Sunday in the 1975 Ryder Cup. Why? Since Brian Barnes was a tough competition! Founded in six Ryder Cups that were straight, won 20 times and enjoyed success on either side of this pond-before & after he turned 50!
“Barnesy was long & straight off the tee, and, of course, quick of wit. Yes, we will miss Barnesy! Barbara and I’d like to thank Didi and family for allowing us know of this wonderful loss – to the match and also to us, personally – because we send our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to all of them.”
Gary Player added:”My sincere condolences to the family members and friends of irrepressible Scotsman Brian Barnes. He had a superb career such as back to Senior Open Championships. You’ll be missed Barnsy. RIP.”
Lee Westwood was among several professionals to place tributes, adding:”In 1994, my 1st year on tour that I was sat at a hotel bar once I got asked to play at the Perrier Four-ball later that year. It had been Brian Barnes.
“I immediately jumped at the opportunity. We didn’t do quite nicely (missed the cut) but it had been one of the most fun weeks I have ever had on tour. A golfer and fantastic story teller and companion. RIP Brian.”
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