The PGA Tour is home to some of the most talented golfers in the world, and these players compete each year for millions of dollars in prize money. With so many incredible athletes vying for top spots, it’s no surprise that some players have earned more than others over the course of their careers. In this article, we’ll take a comprehensive look at the top earners on the PGA Tour, exploring who has amassed the most career earnings and how they’ve managed to do it. From Tiger Woods to Phil Mickelson, we’ll dive into the careers of the richest golfers in history and find out what makes them so successful.

The Top 10 Golfers with the Most Career Earnings on the PGA Tour

Sam Snead

Sam Snead is one of the most successful golfers in the history of the PGA Tour. He won an impressive 82 events during his career, which spanned over four decades. Snead’s consistent and accurate driving ability was a key factor in his success on the course.

In terms of career earnings, Snead amassed over $2.6 million, which is an impressive feat considering the length of his career and the fact that he competed during a time when prize money was significantly lower than it is today. Snead’s ability to win consistently throughout his career helped him secure a spot among the top earners on the PGA Tour.

Despite his impressive record, Snead never won a major championship, which is a testament to the strength of the field during his era. However, his numerous victories and impressive career earnings make him one of the most successful golfers in PGA Tour history.

Tiger Woods

• Won 81 PGA Tour events
  • A staggering number of victories that solidify his position as one of the most successful golfers in history
• Earned over $120 million in career earnings
  • An amount that is a testament to his incredible talent and ability to draw crowds
• Considered one of the greatest golfers of all time
  • A title that is hard to dispute given his numerous accolades and achievements on the course

Jack Nicklaus

• Won 73 PGA Tour events
• Earned over $9.7 million in career earnings
• Known for his incredible mental toughness and clutch performances

Jack Nicklaus, widely regarded as one of the greatest golfers of all time, has a staggering record of achievements on the PGA Tour. He won a total of 73 events during his illustrious career, an impressive feat that solidifies his place among the sport’s all-time greats. With a remarkable earnings total of over $9.7 million, Nicklaus consistently performed at the highest level, demonstrating exceptional skill and determination.

Nicklaus’ mental toughness was a hallmark of his career, and he was known for his ability to perform under immense pressure. He won five Masters Tournaments, six U.S. Opens, and three British Opens, showcasing his versatility and prowess across various courses and conditions. Nicklaus’ legacy on the PGA Tour is indisputable, and his earnings reflect the tremendous success he achieved throughout his career.

Arnold Palmer

• Won 29 PGA Tour events
  Arnold Palmer, a legendary golfer, has won an impressive 29 PGA Tour events during his illustrious career. This achievement places him among the top golfers in terms of number of wins.
• Earned over $1.8 million in career earnings
  In addition to his numerous victories, Palmer also earned an estimated $1.8 million in career earnings on the PGA Tour. This figure ranks him as one of the highest-earning golfers of all time.
• Known for his charisma and passion for the game
  Arnold Palmer was not only a talented golfer, but also a charismatic individual who was passionate about the sport. His enthusiasm and love for golf inspired countless fans and helped to make the sport more popular.

Overall, Arnold Palmer’s impressive career earnings and numerous victories on the PGA Tour make him a standout performer in the world of golf.

Phil Mickelson

Phil Mickelson, also known as “Lefty,” is one of the most successful golfers in PGA Tour history. With 45 career wins and over $91 million in earnings, Mickelson has solidified his place as one of the top earners on the tour.

Mickelson’s success on the course can be attributed to his unique shot-making ability and his ability to perform under pressure. He is known for his creative approach shots and his incredible short game, which has helped him win numerous tournaments and earn a place among the top earners on the PGA Tour.

One of Mickelson’s most notable achievements was his win at the 2004 Masters Tournament, where he defeated Tiger Woods in a historic final round duel. This victory cemented Mickelson’s status as one of the best golfers of his generation and earned him a place among the top earners on the PGA Tour.

Despite his numerous successes, Mickelson has faced his fair share of challenges throughout his career. In 2011, he was diagnosed with a rare, benign tumor in his heart, which required surgery and forced him to take a break from golf. However, Mickelson was able to make a full recovery and return to the course, continuing his streak of earning top dollars on the PGA Tour.

Overall, Phil Mickelson’s impressive career earnings and numerous victories make him one of the top earners on the PGA Tour. His unique shot-making ability and clutch performances under pressure have cemented his place among the all-time greats of golf.

Tom Watson

• Won 39 PGA Tour events
• Earned over $17 million in career earnings
• Known for his exceptional putting skills and longevity in the sport

Tom Watson is a legendary golfer who has had a storied career on the PGA Tour. With 39 victories to his name, he is one of the most successful golfers in the history of the sport. His impressive record on the tour has earned him over $17 million in career earnings, making him one of the top earners in the history of the PGA Tour.

One of the key factors in Watson’s success has been his exceptional putting skills. He has a natural feel for the greens and has consistently been one of the best putters on tour. This has helped him to win many close matches and has been a major contributor to his overall success on the tour.

In addition to his impressive skills on the course, Watson is also known for his longevity in the sport. He has been competing at the highest level for over four decades and has continued to perform at a high level well into his 60s. This has made him a role model for many golfers and has earned him a great deal of respect from his peers.

Overall, Tom Watson is a remarkable golfer who has achieved a great deal of success on the PGA Tour. His impressive record, exceptional putting skills, and longevity in the sport have all contributed to his status as one of the top earners on the tour.

Lee Trevino

Lee Trevino is a legendary golfer who won a total of 29 PGA Tour events during his career. His impressive win total helped him earn over $1.5 million in career earnings, making him one of the top earners in PGA Tour history.
* Earned over $1.5 million in career earnings
Trevino’s impressive earnings were due in part to his consistency on the course. He was known for his ability to win events in a variety of different ways, whether it was through his powerful drives or his precise iron shots.
* Known for his versatility and ability to adapt to different golf courses
One of Trevino’s greatest strengths was his versatility. He was able to adapt to different golf courses and playing conditions, which allowed him to be successful in a wide range of events. This versatility was a key factor in his ability to win so many PGA Tour events and earn such a large amount of money during his career.

Gary Player

• Won 24 PGA Tour events
  Gary Player is a South African professional golfer who has won a total of 24 PGA Tour events throughout his career. His impressive win record includes three major championships: the 1965 U.S. Open, the 1968 British Open, and the 1974 Masters Tournament. Player’s consistent performance on the course has earned him a place among the top golfers in the history of the sport.
• Earned over $12 million in career earnings
  In addition to his numerous victories, Gary Player has also earned a substantial amount of money throughout his career. According to official PGA Tour records, Player has accumulated over $12 million in career earnings, making him one of the highest-earning golfers of all time.
• Known for his physical fitness and dedication to the sport
  Gary Player is not only known for his impressive golf skills but also for his physical fitness and dedication to the sport. He is often referred to as the “Black Knight” due to his trademark black outfit and his fierce competitive spirit. Player’s commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle has set an example for other golfers and athletes alike.

Ben Hogan

• Won 64 PGA Tour events
• Known for his precise ball-striking ability and attention to detail

Ben Hogan is considered one of the greatest golfers of all time, with a career that spanned more than three decades. He won a total of 64 PGA Tour events, which ranks him fifth on the all-time list. Hogan’s most impressive accomplishment, however, was his victory at the 1953 British Open, where he won by two strokes over the legendary Sam Snead.

Hogan’s success on the course was due in large part to his incredible attention to detail. He was known for spending hours on the practice range, working on his swing and perfecting his technique. This dedication to hard work and precision earned him the nickname “The Hawk,” which became synonymous with his intense focus and determination on the golf course.

Despite his impressive career, Hogan’s earnings were relatively modest by today’s standards. He earned over $1.5 million in career earnings, which would equate to over $15 million in today’s money. Nonetheless, Hogan’s legacy as a golfer and his impact on the sport are still felt today, and he remains an inspiration to aspiring golfers around the world.

Billy Casper

Billy Casper is a professional golfer who has had a successful career on the PGA Tour. With over 50 wins under his belt, he is one of the most decorated golfers in the history of the tour. Casper’s steady and consistent play has earned him over $7.3 million in career earnings, making him one of the top earners on the tour.

One of Casper’s most notable achievements was his victory at the 1970 U.S. Open. He won the tournament by a single stroke, finishing with a score of 276. This win solidified Casper’s reputation as a top golfer and helped establish him as a force to be reckoned with on the PGA Tour.

In addition to his success on the course, Casper is also known for his dedication to philanthropy. He has been involved in a number of charitable organizations over the years, including the Billy Casper Foundation, which supports a variety of causes including education and healthcare.

Casper’s legacy on the PGA Tour is one of consistent excellence and unwavering dedication to the sport. His impressive career earnings and numerous victories make him a standout among his peers and a true legend of the game.

Raymond Floyd

Raymond Floyd is a legendary golfer who has left an indelible mark on the PGA Tour. With 22 PGA Tour events under his belt, Floyd is one of the most successful golfers in the history of the sport. His impressive career earnings of over $14 million make him one of the top earners on the PGA Tour.

Accomplishments and Accolades

Floyd’s accomplishments on the golf course are numerous. He won two major championships, the 1976 PGA Championship and the 1982 U.S. Open. He also finished in the top 10 at the Masters a record 13 times. Floyd’s consistency and talent on the course earned him a place in the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2005.

Powerful Driving and Accurate Iron Play

Floyd was known for his powerful driving and accurate iron play. He had a unique swing that produced a lot of power and accuracy, which allowed him to hit the ball a long way and hit it with precision. This combination of power and accuracy helped him to win many tournaments and establish himself as one of the top golfers of his era.

Legacy

Raymond Floyd’s legacy on the PGA Tour is secure. He was a dominant force on the course for many years and his impressive career earnings and numerous accomplishments are a testament to his skill and dedication. He continues to inspire young golfers and remains a beloved figure in the sport.

The Top 5 Female Golfers with the Most Career Earnings on the LPGA Tour

Annika Sorenstam

• Won 72 LPGA Tour events
  • Sorenstam was a dominant force on the LPGA Tour, winning a staggering 72 events throughout her career. Her impressive win total ranks her as one of the most successful golfers in LPGA history.
• Earned over $22 million in career earnings
  • Sorenstam’s impressive win total translated to significant earnings, with her accumulating over $22 million in career earnings. This figure places her among the top earners in LPGA history.
• Known for her incredible ball-striking ability and composure on the course
  • Sorenstam was renowned for her exceptional ball-striking ability, which allowed her to consistently hit accurate and powerful shots. She was also known for her composure on the course, which helped her to maintain her focus and perform at a high level under pressure.

Lorena Ochoa

• Won 27 LPGA Tour events
• Earned over $18 million in career earnings
• Known for her exceptional short game and positive attitude

Lorena Ochoa, a Mexican professional golfer, is one of the most successful players in LPGA Tour history. She won a total of 27 events during her career, which spanned from 2003 to 2010. Ochoa’s impressive list of victories includes the 2007 U.S. Women’s Open, where she became the first Mexican to win a major championship.

In addition to her numerous victories, Ochoa also earned over $18 million in career earnings, making her one of the highest-paid female golfers of all time. Her success on the course was driven by her exceptional short game, which was considered one of the best in the sport. Ochoa’s positive attitude and determination also played a significant role in her success, as she consistently set high goals for herself and worked hard to achieve them.

Despite retiring from professional golf in 2010, Ochoa’s impact on the sport continues to be felt. She remains an inspiration to young golfers around the world, and her legacy as one of the greatest female golfers of all time is secure.

Karrie Webb

• Won 40 LPGA Tour events
  • A remarkable achievement for any golfer, Karrie Webb’s 40 LPGA Tour victories are a testament to her consistency and skill on the course.
  • Webb’s impressive earnings make her one of the most successful female golfers of all time.
• Known for her consistent and powerful swing
  • Webb’s swing is renowned for its consistency and power, allowing her to excel in a variety of tournament conditions.

Juli Inkster

Juli Inkster is a prominent figure in women’s golf, with an impressive career spanning over three decades. Her consistent performance and versatility on the golf course have earned her a place among the top-earning female golfers in the history of the LPGA Tour.

With 31 LPGA Tour victories to her name, Inkster has solidified her position as one of the most successful golfers in the history of the women’s game. Her talent and determination have allowed her to compete at the highest level, and her ability to perform under pressure has been a hallmark of her career.

In addition to her impressive win total, Inkster has also amassed over $11 million in career earnings. This places her among the top five female golfers in terms of career earnings, a testament to her sustained success on the golf course.

Inkster’s longevity as a top-level golfer is another notable aspect of her career. She has been able to maintain her competitive edge for many years, consistently challenging for titles and dominating her opponents. This versatility and ability to compete at a high level for extended periods have set her apart from her peers and cemented her legacy in the sport.

Overall, Juli Inkster’s career on the LPGA Tour is a testament to her exceptional skill, determination, and resilience. Her remarkable achievements and sustained success have made her one of the most successful and respected golfers in the history of the women’s game.

Nancy Lopez

Nancy Lopez is a renowned golfer who has left an indelible mark on the LPGA Tour. She won an impressive 48 LPGA Tour events, making her one of the most successful golfers in the history of the women’s game. Lopez’s exceptional skills on the course translated into substantial earnings, as she accumulated over $8 million in career earnings.

Lopez’s success on the LPGA Tour was not solely attributed to her skill with a golf club. She was also known for her exceptional putting and overall scoring ability. Her competitive drive and mental toughness set her apart from her peers, allowing her to consistently perform at a high level under pressure.

In addition to her impressive win total, Lopez also held the number one spot in the women’s world golf rankings for a significant portion of her career. Her consistent play and dominant performances earned her numerous accolades, including three LPGA Player of the Year awards.

Lopez’s influence on the LPGA Tour extended beyond her on-course achievements. She was a trailblazer for women’s golf, helping to pave the way for future generations of female golfers. Her success inspired countless young women to take up the sport and pursue their dreams of professional golf.

Overall, Nancy Lopez’s career on the LPGA Tour was defined by her exceptional talent, mental toughness, and competitive drive. Her success on the course translated into substantial earnings, cementing her status as one of the top female golfers of all time.

Se Ri Pak

• Born on September 27, 1977, in Seoul, South Korea.
• Turned professional in 1998 and joined the LPGA Tour in 1999.
• Se Ri Pak is considered one of the greatest female golfers of all time, known for her exceptional skill and mental toughness.
• Her impressive length off the tee was a significant factor in her success, and she was known for her ability to hit long and accurate drives.
• Pak won a total of 25 LPGA Tour events during her career, which spanned from 1998 to 2007.
• Her biggest accomplishment came in 1998 when she became the youngest player ever to win the U.S. Women’s Open at the age of 20.
• Pak’s earnings on the LPGA Tour totaled over $7 million throughout her career, making her one of the top earners in the history of the tour.
• She was also a key member of the South Korean national team, helping them win the World Cup of Golf in 2007.
• Despite her success on the course, Pak suffered from chronic back pain throughout her career, which eventually forced her to retire in 2008.
• Today, Se Ri Pak remains an inspiration to aspiring female golfers around the world, and her legacy as one of the greatest players in LPGA history is secure.

The Future of Golf: Young Players to Watch

Justin Thomas

Justin Thomas is a rising star on the PGA Tour, known for his impressive skills on the golf course. With 14 PGA Tour events under his belt, Thomas has quickly made a name for himself as one of the top players to watch in the sport.

• Career Earnings: Over $44 million
  Justin Thomas has earned over $44 million in his career on the PGA Tour, making him one of the highest-earning players in the sport.
• Powerful and Accurate Driving
  Thomas is known for his powerful and accurate driving, which has helped him gain an advantage on many courses. He has a unique swing that generates incredible speed and precision, allowing him to hit the ball a long way with incredible accuracy.
• Impressive Short Game
  In addition to his driving skills, Thomas is also known for his impressive short game. He has a great touch around the green, and is able to get up and down from difficult lies with ease. This has helped him save many shots and win important tournaments.

Overall, Justin Thomas is a young player with a bright future on the PGA Tour. With his impressive skills and high earnings, he is sure to be a force to be reckoned with in the years to come.

Jon Rahm

Jon Rahm, a Spanish professional golfer, has made a significant impact on the PGA Tour since turning pro in 2016. At just 27 years old, Rahm has already won 10 PGA Tour events, which is an impressive feat for such a young player. His most notable victories include the 2021 U.S. Open and the 2020 Memorial Tournament.

Rahm’s success on the course can be attributed to his exceptional ball-striking ability and strong mental game. He is known for his precision and accuracy with his irons, and his driving ability is also top-notch. In addition, Rahm has a remarkable short game, which allows him to get up and down from difficult lies around the green.

Furthermore, Rahm’s success has not gone unnoticed by his peers. He has been praised for his work ethic, sportsmanship, and overall demeanor on and off the course. With his talent, drive, and positive attitude, it is clear that Jon Rahm is a force to be reckoned with on the PGA Tour for years to come.

Collin Morikawa

• Won 5 PGA Tour events
• Earned over $13 million in career earnings
• Known for his exceptional ball-striking ability and impressive course management skills

Collin Morikawa, a young golfer who has made a significant impact on the PGA Tour, has already won 5 events and earned over $13 million in career earnings. His talent and success have not gone unnoticed, as he is known for his exceptional ball-striking ability and impressive course management skills.

At just 24 years old, Morikawa has quickly risen through the ranks of the PGA Tour, winning his first major championship at the 2020 PGA Championship. He has since gone on to win two more events, including the 2021 Open Championship, cementing his status as one of the top golfers in the world.

Morikawa’s success can be attributed to his precise ball-striking ability, which allows him to hit accurate shots and control his ball flight. He is also highly skilled at course management, which enables him to navigate challenging courses and avoid costly mistakes.

Additionally, Morikawa’s mental toughness and ability to stay focused under pressure have been key factors in his success. He has a calm and composed demeanor on the course, which helps him to perform at his best even in high-pressure situations.

Overall, Collin Morikawa is a player to watch in the future of golf. With his exceptional skills and impressive track record, he is poised to continue his success on the PGA Tour and establish himself as one of the all-time greats in the sport.

Xander Schauffele

• Won 8 PGA Tour events
  Xander Schauffele is a rising star on the PGA Tour, having already won 8 events and earned over $18 million in career earnings. His impressive track record makes him a force to be reckoned with on the course.
  Schauffele’s impressive earnings are a testament to his consistent play and ability to perform under pressure. He has established himself as a top contender in many of the tournaments he enters.
• Known for his consistent play and impressive ability to perform under pressure
  Schauffele’s reputation as a consistent player is well-earned. He consistently ranks among the top players in terms of fairways hit and greens in regulation, and his ability to perform under pressure has been a key factor in his success on the PGA Tour.

Tony Finau

• Won 4 PGA Tour events
  • The 2016 Puerto Rico Open, the 2017 Texas Open, the 2018 Fort Worth Invitational, and the 2021 Northern Trust Open
• Earned over $16 million in career earnings
  • With over $6 million earned in the 2021 season alone
• Known for his impressive length off the tee and ability to compete with the best players in the world
  • Ranked in the top 20 in driving distance and top 5 in strokes gained off the tee in 2021
  • Has finished in the top 10 at major championships, including a T2 at the 2018 Masters and a T5 at the 2021 U.S. Open.

Danielle Kang

Danielle Kang is a professional golfer who has made a name for herself on the LPGA Tour. She has won a total of seven events on the tour and has earned over $6 million in career earnings. Kang is known for her impressive short game and consistent play over the years.

In addition to her success on the LPGA Tour, Kang has also had a successful amateur career. She won the 2010 U.S. Women’s Amateur Championship and reached the final of the 2011 Women’s British Open.

Kang’s success on the course can be attributed to her hard work and dedication. She practices extensively and is always looking for ways to improve her game. Her focus on fitness and nutrition has also helped her maintain her physical and mental health throughout her career.

Despite her success, Kang remains humble and grounded. She is known for her positive attitude and her willingness to help others. She has been an inspiration to many young golfers and is widely regarded as one of the future stars of the sport.

Nelly Korda

• Early Life and Amateur Career
  Nelly Korda, born in 1998, began playing golf at a young age. She showed great potential in the sport, winning the 2012 US Women’s Amateur Public Links and the 2013 Canadian Women’s Amateur. In 2014, she turned professional and made her LPGA Tour debut.
• Breakthrough Season and Consistent Success
  Korda’s professional career took off in 2018 when she won her first major championship at the Women’s British Open. She followed that up with two additional victories that season, solidifying her position as one of the top players on the LPGA Tour. Since then, Korda has continued to be a force to be reckoned with, consistently finishing in the top 10 in major championships and accumulating 12 LPGA Tour victories.
• Earnings and Mental Toughness
  Korda’s success on the course has translated to substantial earnings. As of September 2021, she has earned over $11 million in career earnings, placing her among the top earners in women’s golf. Korda is also known for her impressive ball-striking ability and mental toughness, traits that have contributed to her consistent success and ability to perform under pressure.

FAQs

1. Who has the most career earnings on the PGA Tour?

As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, Tiger Woods has the most career earnings on the PGA Tour with over $120 million in total earnings. Woods has been one of the most dominant golfers of all time, winning 15 major championships and 81 PGA Tour events throughout his career.

2. How is career earnings calculated on the PGA Tour?

Career earnings on the PGA Tour are calculated by adding up all the prize money a golfer has earned throughout their career. The prize money is awarded to golfers based on their finish in each tournament, with the winner typically receiving the largest payout.

3. How does the PGA Tour calculate career earnings?

The PGA Tour calculates career earnings by adding up all the prize money a golfer has earned in PGA Tour events. This includes earnings from regular season events, playoffs, and majors. The PGA Tour also includes earnings from other tours, such as the Web.com Tour and the Korn Ferry Tour, in the calculation of career earnings.

4. What factors contribute to a golfer’s career earnings on the PGA Tour?

There are several factors that can contribute to a golfer’s career earnings on the PGA Tour. Winning more tournaments, finishing higher in tournaments, and playing in more tournaments are all factors that can increase a golfer’s earnings. Additionally, playing in majors and other high-paying events can also contribute to a golfer’s career earnings.

5. Is there a minimum number of events a golfer must play to be eligible for career earnings on the PGA Tour?

There is no minimum number of events a golfer must play to be eligible for career earnings on the PGA Tour. However, in order to be eligible for FedEx Cup playoffs and other season-ending events, a golfer must have played in a minimum number of events during the season.

6. Can a golfer’s career earnings on the PGA Tour be affected by their performance in other tours?

Yes, a golfer’s career earnings on the PGA Tour can be affected by their performance in other tours. For example, if a golfer earns a significant amount of prize money on another tour, such as the European Tour or the Japan Golf Tour, that money may be added to their PGA Tour career earnings.

7. Is there a maximum amount of money a golfer can earn on the PGA Tour?

There is no maximum amount of money a golfer can earn on the PGA Tour. However, the amount of money a golfer can earn in a single tournament is capped at 20% of the total purse. Additionally, the PGA Tour has a limit on the amount of money a golfer can earn in a single season, which is known as the “FedEx Cup bonus pool.”