In golf’s storied history, few titles carry the weight of the PGA Championship. As one of the sport’s four majors, it’s where legends cement their status and where careers are defined by clutch putts and Sunday drama.
From Walter Hagen to Tiger Woods, the battle for the glory has delivered iconic moments. Across eras, champions have lifted the Wanamaker Trophy and etched their names into the game’s rich tapestry.
As records have fallen and rivalries unfolded, one question endures: who truly reigns supreme when it comes to PGA Championship triumphs? The pursuit of that answer reveals a fascinating journey through golf’s greatest stages.
Which golfer has the most PGA Championship wins?
The golfer with the most PGA Championship wins is Jack Nicklaus, who captured the title five times. He’s tied at the top with Walter Hagen — though Hagen’s victories came during the match-play era, while Jack earned his in stroke play.
Golfers with the most PGA Championship victories Jack Nicklaus Jack Nicklaus of the USA drives down the fairway during the British Open in 1978. (Source: Steve Powell/Allsport)
Jack Nicklaus of the USA drives down the fairway during the British Open in 1978. (Source: Steve Powell/Allsport)Jack Nicklaus stands atop the PGA Championship record books with five titles, won over nearly two decades. His first came in 1963, when he edged Dave Ragan by two shots. He added his second in 1971, overcoming a fierce challenge from Billy Casper.
But it was the 1973, 1975, and 1980 victories that cemented his legacy, each demonstrating his signature blend of power, precision and mental toughness. His PGA success reflects his unmatched consistency on golf’s biggest stages.
Whether overpowering courses or outthinking opponents, the Golden Bear’s adaptability was key. His ability to evolve across eras, from battling Arnold Palmer to facing Tom Watson, helped him claim a record 18 major titles, with the PGA Championship playing a starring role.
Walter Hagen Walter Hagen of the US in action during a golf match between England and America in July, 1920. (Source: Allsport Hulton/Archive – Getty Images)
Before the PGA Championship switched to stroke play, Walter Hagen ruled the match play era with an iron fist. His five PGA titles, won between 1921 and 1927, included an astonishing run of four consecutive victories.
His showmanship and swagger made him a superstar, and his dominance in head-to-head duels became the stuff of legend. His impact extended beyond the trophy count.
He helped elevate professional golfers’ status at a time when amateurs ruled the game, demanding respect and raising purses. His PGA record has stood for nearly a century, a testament to his unmatched competitive edge and flair for the dramatic.
Tiger Woods Tiger Woods hoists the Wanamaker Trophy after capturing the PGA Championship in 1999. (Source: Jamie Squire /Allsport – Getty Images)
Tiger Woods burst onto the PGA Championship scene in 1999, winning a nail-biter against Sergio García at Medinah. He followed it with a dramatic playoff victory over Bob May in 2000, during the peak of his career.
His 2006 and 2007 titles further showcased his mastery, as he became the only player in the stroke-play era to win back-to-back PGAs twice. His PGA triumphs are emblematic of his mental fortitude under pressure.
Whether charging through fields or protecting a lead, Tiger’s ability to rise in big moments shaped his legend. His four PGA titles remain a critical part of his 15-major resume, keeping him just one short of Nicklaus in the all-time major race.
Gene Sarazen Gene Sarazen start the 1999 US Masters at the Augusta National GC. (Source: Craig Jones /Allsport – Getty Images)
Gene Sarazen won three PGA Championships in the early days of the event, in 1922, 1923, and 1933. Known for his grit and innovation (he famously invented the sand wedge), he was a fierce competitor during the match play years. His early back-to-back victories signaled the rise of a star who would go on to complete the career Grand Slam.
His influence stretched beyond his wins. He helped popularize golf in America and set a standard of excellence for generations to follow. His PGA dominance laid the groundwork for what became one of the most important majors in the sport, and his name remains etched in golf history.
Sam Snead Sam Snead eyes his shot during the Legends of Golf tournament at the PGA West Stadium Course in 1996. (Source: J.D. Cuban /Allsport – Getty Images)
Sam Snead’s three PGA Championship wins came in 1942, 1949, and 1951, showcasing his remarkable longevity at the top. Known for his smooth swing and effortless power, he first lifted the Wanamaker Trophy during World War II and returned to claim two more as golf evolved in the postwar boom.
His record is part of a staggering career that includes 82 PGA Tour wins—still tied for the all-time lead. His ability to stay competitive across decades was rare, and his PGA titles reflect both his physical gifts and his ability to handle the game’s mental challenges over time.
Brooks Koepka Brooks Koepka of the United States looks across the fifth green during the first round of the 2025 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club. (Source: Harry How/Getty Images)
Brooks Koepka’s rise in the majors has been nothing short of spectacular, and his three PGA titles (2018, 2019, 2023) highlight his dominance. He became the first back-to-back PGA winner since Tiger Woods, and his 2023 win reaffirmed his status as one of golf’s most formidable major players.
What sets him apart is his ability to elevate his game on the biggest stages. With steely focus and unshakable confidence, he thrives when pressure peaks. His PGA success has been central to his reputation as a modern-day major assassin, with no signs of slowing down.
