Jack Nicklaus '1986' Masters Documentary to Air Before Final Round

The documentary will commemorate Nicklaus's record-breaking Masters win at age 46.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 9:06am

A new documentary titled '1986' about Jack Nicklaus's historic Masters Tournament victory in 1986 at the age of 46 will air on CBS on April 12, 2026, just before the network's live coverage of the final round of the 2026 Masters. The documentary will revisit Nicklaus's come-from-behind win, where he shot a final-round 65 to capture his 18th major championship and 6th Masters title, both records.

Why it matters

Nicklaus's 1986 Masters win at age 46 is considered one of the greatest achievements in golf history, as he defied age stereotypes to claim his sixth green jacket and cement his legacy as one of the all-time greats of the sport. The documentary will provide viewers with a deeper look into this iconic moment in sports.

The details

Entering the final day tied for 9th and four strokes off the lead, Nicklaus shot a blistering 65 to overtake Tom Kite and Greg Norman by one stroke and claim the victory. Nicklaus did not take the outright lead until sinking an 18-foot birdie putt on the 17th hole, which was punctuated by the famous 'Yes sir!' call from CBS commentator Verne Lundquist.

  • The documentary '1986' will air on CBS on April 12, 2026, just before the network's live coverage of the final round of the 2026 Masters Tournament.
  • Nicklaus's historic Masters win took place in 1986, when he was 46 years old.

The players

Jack Nicklaus

A legendary professional golfer who won a record 18 major championships, including 6 Masters titles. He became the oldest player to win the Masters in 1986 at the age of 46.

Tom Kite

An American professional golfer who finished runner-up to Nicklaus at the 1986 Masters.

Greg Norman

An Australian professional golfer who also finished one stroke behind Nicklaus at the 1986 Masters.

Verne Lundquist

A longtime CBS sports commentator who delivered the famous 'Yes sir!' call when Nicklaus sank the winning putt on the 17th hole at the 1986 Masters.

Tom McCollum

A writer for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution who had written Nicklaus off as having 'no chance whatsoever to win the tournament' before his historic 1986 Masters victory.

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What they’re saying

“Hey, Tom. Thanks. You just write the same article next year but put 47 in, will you?”

— Jack Nicklaus

What’s next

The documentary '1986' will air on CBS on April 12, 2026, just before the network's live coverage of the final round of the 2026 Masters Tournament.

The takeaway

Jack Nicklaus's improbable victory at the 1986 Masters at the age of 46 is considered one of the greatest achievements in golf history. The new documentary will provide viewers with a deeper appreciation for this iconic moment and Nicklaus's enduring legacy as one of the all-time greats of the sport.