Born in 1949, Watson turned professional at the age of 22, and within a few years, he was a star. By the late ’70s and early ’80s, he didn’t just compete—he ran the sport. He won eight major championships in his career: one U.S. Open (1982); two Masters at Augusta (1977 & 1981); and five British Open Championships (Carnoustie in 1975, Turnberry in 1977, Muirfield in 1980, Royal Troon in 1982 and Royal Birkdale in 1983). Perhaps it was a childhood of playing in unpredictable Missouri weather, but Watson intuitively knew how to play in the infamous blustery British wind. His rivalry with another golf legend, Jack Nicklaus, hit its apex at the 1977 British Open Championship at Turnberry, the legendary “Duel in the Sun,” where Watson won by one in one of the greatest head-to-head battles golf has ever seen.
For all his global fame, Watson hasn’t strayed far from home. He still lives in the metro, in the Overland Park-Stilwell area, and his commitment to the community runs deep. Watson’s charity work has raised millions for local organizations such as Children’s Mercy. He also started his own nonprofits, First Tee of Greater Kansas City and Watson Links—programs designed to expose local kids, who otherwise might not have the chance, to golf.
When his longtime caddie Bruce Edwards was diagnosed with ALS in 2003, Watson took action becoming one of the sport’s world most visible fundraisers for ALS research. Edwards passed away in 2004.
In retirement, Watson became a golf course designer, including The National Golf Club of Kansas City. He has said when designing a course he always thinks about the player first.
Big Win
Big Cedar Lodge pairs knockout views with a six-course golf flex
Set in the Ozark Mountains overlooking Table Rock Lake, the breathtaking backdrop is a given at Big Cedar Lodge. What sets it apart is everything built around it—especially its six golf courses.
The resort just picked up Best Resort and Best Golf Course in Midwest Living’s 2026 Best of the Midwest Awards, a recognition that speaks to both its staying power and its constant evolution. Originally constructed in the early 1920s as a private retreat, it was eventually converted into a guest ranch in 1947. Then, in 1987, Johnny Morris of Bass Pro Shops came along and purchased the property, developing it into a premier wilderness resort.
Accommodations lean into the landscape, from lakeside cabins to glamping setups that feel more curated than rustic. However, golf is where Big Cedar really separates itself. With six courses, including designs by Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus and Tom Fazio, plus the dramatic new Cliffhangers course, the property offers a depth of play that’s hard to match in the region, making it the perfect weekend golf excursion. To learn more visit, bigcedar.com.
