Embed from Getty ImagesIT WAS STRANGE TO LEARN that Jack Nicklaus was being sued by the Nicklaus Companies for breach of contract. That was in May.
Since then I’ve read a bit more about how Jack lost control of his companies over time and essentially became an employee, including one that fell out of favor. It was a series of unfortunate events, at least from Jack’s standpoint.
Now, as the case works its way through the New York courts, there’s been a positive development for the Golden Bear.
“Following a three-day hearing in late November,” Golf Digest reported, “a New York supreme court judge has allowed Nicklaus to compete against his former company for golf course architecture work and other business, except commercial endorsements. Nicklaus has announced he will be providing his design services through a new firm, named 1-JN.”
Jack issued a statement, saying in part:
“It has been more than 50 years since my first course, but I am even more passionate than ever about golf course design. I strongly believe that my ideas and creativity are even better now than they have ever been, and I am inspired to continue producing memorable and sustainable golf experiences that can be enjoyed for years to come.
“You might say I have nothing to prove, but I have a lot left to give.”
If you want to read more about Jack’s travails, here’s a December SI article that includes a link to his affidavit.