"We competed in everything we did": Jack Nicklaus describes his relationship with fellow golf legend Arnold Palmer

Golf legends Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer have been known for their signature rivalry and camaraderie. In a recent interview with 5 Clubs Golf's Gary Williams, Nicklaus offered the game's enthusiasts a glimpse into the dynamic relationship he shared with the late golfer.

During the interview, Nicklaus recounted a memorable story from their journey to Great Britain for the British Open. He recalled (via X @5ClubsGolf):

"Palmer and I competed on the golf course. We competed off the golf course. We competed in everything we did. We were playing Bridge with our wives on the airplane going over to Great Britain for the British Open. We get on the airplane we're playing Bridge for 6 or 7 hours. We all wanted to play for an hour and maybe take 5 to six hours of sleep. No no no. It was six hours of Bridge. Somebody had to come out ahead."

Here's a look at the PGA Tour legend recollecting the wholesome moment that left the host chuckling (via X @5ClubsGolf):

Palmer, who passed away at the age of 87 in September 2016, shared a special relationship with his fellow PGA Tour competitor. Nicklaus and Palmer shared a blend of fierce competition and mutual respect that fueled their battles on the golf course. This unique bond defined a golden era in golf. While they pushed each other to greatness, their hilarious Bridge marathon is a true testament to their healthy competition even while relaxing.

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How many majors do Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer have?

Here's a comparison of Jack Nicklaus, who is now a retired professional golfer, and the late Arnold Palmer's performances at major championships throughout their illustrious careers:

Major Championship Appearances

• Jack Nicklaus - 164
• Arnold Palmer - 142

Cuts Made

• Jack Nicklaus - 131
• Arnold Palmer - 90

Total Major Victories

• Jack Nicklaus - 18 (6-time Masters winner, 4-time US Open winner, 3-time Open Championship winner, and 5-time PGA Championship winner)
• Arnold Palmer - 7 (4-time Masters winner, 1-time US Open winner, and 2-time PGA Championship winner)

Total Runner-up Finishes

• Jack Nicklaus - 19
• Arnold Palmer - 10

Total Top-5 Finishes

• Jack Nicklaus - 56
• Arnold Palmer - 26

Total Top-10 Finishes

• Jack Nicklaus - 73
• Arnold Palmer - 38

Total Top-25 Finishes

• Jack Nicklaus - 95
• Arnold Palmer - 62

Masters Victories

• Jack Nicklaus - 6
• Arnold Palmer - 4

Masters Top-10 Finishes

• Jack Nicklaus - 22
• Arnold Palmer - 12

US Open Victories

• Jack Nicklaus - 4
• Arnold Palmer - 1

US Open Top-10 Finishes

• Jack Nicklaus - 18
• Arnold Palmer - 13

Open Championship Victories

• Jack Nicklaus - 3
• Arnold Palmer - 2

Open Championship Top-10 Finishes

• Jack Nicklaus - 18
• Arnold Palmer - 7

PGA Championship Victories

• Jack Nicklaus - 5
• Arnold Palmer - 0

PGA Championship Top-10 Finishes

• Jack Nicklaus - 15
• Arnold Palmer - 6