Nelson, Byron (1912-2006), an American golfer, was one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. In 1945, Nelson had perhaps the greatest year in golf history, winning 18 tournaments, 11 in a row. Both are men’s professional golf records. Nelson won the United States Open in 1939, the Masters Tournament in 1937 and 1942, and the United States PGA (Professional Golfers’ Association) Championship in 1940 and 1945.
John Byron Nelson, Jr., was born on Feb. 4, 1912, in Long Branch, Texas. He started his golf career as a caddie at the age of 12 in Fort Worth, where his family had moved, and won his first tournament as an amateur in 1928. Nelson turned professional in 1932. He did not win his first significant tournament until 1935. In 1944, Nelson won eight tournaments. He was the leading money winner on the men’s professional tour in 1944 and 1945.
Nelson retired from full-time competition in 1946, though he played occasionally in tournaments for several years. He won his last victory at the French Open in 1955. Nelson died on Sept. 26, 2006.
