Jack Nicklaus has led the tributes to Brian Barnes and insisted that”a lot of” was made of the Scot beating him twice in 1 day in the 1975 Ryder Cup.
Barnes, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 74 following a struggle with cancer, won 23 championships and remains the only player to defend winning back-to-back in Royal Portrush in 1995 and 1996, the Open title.
However, the Scot is best known for both Ryder Cup singles strikes Nicklaus at Laurel Valley in 1975, after a 4 up &2 victory in the morning with a 2&1 victory at the afternoon within the Golden Bear, who was reigning Masters and PGA winner at the time.
But, Nicklaus explained Barnes as a”tough competitor” and hinted that the two wins amid a significant defeat for Europe weren’t any surprise, as he’d paid a glowing tribute to social media.
The 18-time major winner wrote:”Barbara and that I learned by Brian Barnes’ daughter, Didi, that her father & our buddy Brian had lost his struggle with cancer passed. Her voice, amazing & comforting, said if she had been to reduce her dad, it had been as close to a”model passing” as any loving family member could want.
“‘Barnesy’ has been an absolute character. Entertainer as golfer. Was not uncommon to see him wear long socks with shorts, tee off with pipe in his mouth & mark his ball!
“To be truthful, too much has been produced of Barnesy beating me two on Sunday at the 1975 Ryder Cup. Why? Since Brian Barnes was a tough competitor! Founded in six Ryder Cups that were consecutive, enjoyed success on both sides of the pond-before & after he turned 50 and won 20 days!
“Barnesy was long & straight off the teeand, obviously, quick of wit. Yes, we will overlook Barnesy! Barbara and I wish to thank Didi and family for allowing us know of the terrific loss – for the game and to us, personally – as we send our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to them all.”
Gary Player included:”My sincere condolences to the family & friends of irrepressible Scotsman Brian Barnes. He had a superb career, winning all around the planet, such as back to Senior Open Championships. You’ll be overlooked. RIP.”
Lee Westwood was among many professionals to post tributes, including:”In 1994, my 1st year on tour that I was sat in a hotel bar once I got asked to play at the Perrier Four-ball after that year. It was Brian Barnes.
“I immediately jumped at the chance. We did not do very nicely (missed the cut) but it had been clearly one of the most enjoyable weeks I have ever had out on tour. A golfer and story teller and companion. RIP Brian.”
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