Rivalry among talented athletes always exists. The drive to outclass each other is what transforms stars into legends. But in the end, it is the respect for each other that outshines the rest. Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus are two of the greatest golfers of all time. Tiger Woods has hunted down several of Nicklaus’ records. Yet, the Golden Bear once had heartwarming words for an injured Woods in 2017.

Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus have always shown appreciation toward each other in the past. The legends of the game have played a key role in making the sport reach where it stands today.

However, when two men with astonishing talent belong to the same domain, comparisons ought to arise. Nonetheless, despite all the heat, Nicklaus once wished his fellow Hall of Famer a speedy recovery.

What did Jack Nicklaus say to an injured Tiger Woods?

In 2017, Woods underwent his fourth back surgery. The injury caused Tiger to miss most of his 2016-17 PGA Tour season. During which he only competed in a single tournament at the Farmers Insurance Open. Many sympathized with the 47-year-old, including the 18-time Major winner Jack Nicklaus.

“Nobody wants their records broken,” the Golden Bear told Golf.com ahead of the 2016 Insperity Invitational. However, after sharing the thoughts of his brain, Nicklaus then spoke from his heart. The 82-year-old shared his conversation with Tiger Woods and the words he used to uplift his spirits.

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“I told him I don’t want you to not to have the opportunity and to be healthy to try and do so”, said Jack Nicklaus. He then added his sorrow for the 15-time Major winner. “So, you know, I feel bad for Tiger because you have to have sympathy or feeling for anybody who’s suffering and particularly a fellow competitor”.

A year after Tiger Woods’ surgery, he returned and competed at 18 PGA Tour events, and even ended his five-year win drought by claiming the 2018 Tour Championship. The win must have surely brought joy to Jack Nicklaus.

Though many consider Woods and Nicklaus to be arch-rivals, they’ve always melted the hearts of the golf world with their public display of respect and humility for each other. Perhaps both Hall of Famers may have more similarities than differences.

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What are your thoughts on Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus’ respectful competition? Let us know in the comments section below.