Jack Nicklaus Wins 1986 Masters After Newspaper Prank

Nicklaus' friend taped article to fridge, igniting legendary comeback victory

Apr. 7, 2026 at 4:07pm

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An abstract, energetic painting featuring bold brushstrokes of neon colors capturing the dynamic motion of a golfer's swing, with a faint outline of a newspaper article in the background, conceptually representing the pivotal role a simple prank played in one of sports' most iconic moments.A legendary comeback fueled by a playful prank, as Jack Nicklaus' improbable 1986 Masters victory cemented his status as one of golf's all-time greats.Augusta Today

In one of the most iconic moments in sports history, a simple prank by Jack Nicklaus' friend involving a newspaper article taped to the refrigerator of his Augusta rental home ended up inspiring the golf legend to a stunning comeback victory at the 1986 Masters tournament.

Why it matters

Nicklaus' improbable 1986 Masters win at age 46 is considered one of the greatest achievements in golf history, cementing his legacy as one of the all-time greats of the sport. The backstory of a friend's playful prank serving as the catalyst for this legendary victory has become a cherished part of the lore surrounding this tournament.

The details

In the days leading up to the 1986 Masters, Nicklaus' friend taped a newspaper article to the refrigerator in Nicklaus' Augusta rental home. The article highlighted Nicklaus' advancing age and doubts about his ability to win another major championship. This playful jab from his friend ended up providing the motivation Nicklaus needed to defy the odds and mount an improbable comeback, ultimately clinching his sixth Masters title in one of the most thrilling final rounds in golf history.

  • Nicklaus' friend taped the newspaper article to the fridge in the days before the 1986 Masters tournament.
  • Nicklaus went on to win the 1986 Masters on April 13, 1986.

The players

Jack Nicklaus

Legendary professional golfer who won a record 18 major championships, including 6 Masters titles.

Nicklaus' friend

An unidentified friend of Jack Nicklaus who played a prank on the golf legend by taping a newspaper article to his refrigerator in the days before the 1986 Masters.

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What they’re saying

“That newspaper article was the perfect motivation. I still have it to this day - it's a reminder of one of the greatest moments of my career.”

— Jack Nicklaus

The takeaway

Nicklaus' improbable 1986 Masters victory, sparked by a simple prank from a friend, has become one of the most iconic and enduring stories in sports history, demonstrating the power of motivation and the unpredictable nature of athletic greatness.