Jack Nicklaus is one of the greatest U.S. Open champions to ever play the game, and has been honored as such on Wednesday as the USGA announced the remaning of the U.S. Open medal to the 'Jack Nicklaus Medal' for everything he's given to the game.
"For more than six decades Jack Nicklaus has been one of golf's greatest ambassadors, embodying golf's timeless values and acting as a role model for generations of golfers and fans," USGA president Glen Nager said during a ceremony celebrating Nicklaus‘ first U.S. Open victory, a 1962 playoff victory over Arnold Palmer. "He's the quintessential U.S. Open champion."
The USGA will noted that a "Jack Nicklaus Room" will be created at its USGA Museum, which already houses wings named for legends Bob Jones, Ben Hogan, Arnold Palmer, and Mickey Wright. Historic artifacts from throughout Nicklaus' career will be on display.
"Kind of neat, isn't it? Nicklaus said. Take an old guy and honor him. I think that's pretty nice."
For more on the 2012 U.S. Open, make sure to check out the USGA's ongoing coverage, as well as SB Nation's dedicated golf hub.