MIAMI (AP) — Legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus has emerged victorious in a defamation lawsuit, securing a $50 million verdict against his former business associates in a Florida court.
A jury in Palm Beach County, consisting of six members, concluded on Monday that the Nicklaus Companies had tarnished the reputation of the 18-time major tournament winner. Their actions allegedly subjected him to ridicule, hatred, and contempt. Though company owner Howard Milstein and executive Andrew O’Brien were named as defendants, the jury did not hold them personally accountable.
Eugene Stearns, representing Nicklaus, highlighted his client’s lifelong dedication to philanthropy and his esteemed status both as an athlete and a person of integrity.
“Jack Nicklaus has always been a model of excellence and deserves respect,” Stearns commented. “We are gratified that the jury acknowledged the distressing situation and rendered justice.”
The lawsuit revealed that Nicklaus, at 85, accused Milstein, O’Brien, and others of spreading false rumors that he had considered a $750 million offer to join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf League. They also allegedly claimed he was suffering from dementia and incapable of managing his own affairs.
During the trial, defense lawyers contended that the executives never intended to defame Nicklaus, framing the dispute as a mere business disagreement. They argued that the golfer’s reputation remained intact, questioning why a company bearing his name would seek to undermine him.
Attorneys for Nicklaus Companies didn’t immediately respond to emails seeking comment Tuesday evening.
Earlier this year, a New York judge dismissed a lawsuit filed by Nicklaus Companies against Nicklaus that attempted to prevent the golfer from using his name, image and likeness to promote his golf course design business.
Nicklaus joined Nicklaus Companies in 2007 as part of a $145 million deal, but Nicklaus eventually quit and planned to continue designing golf courses on his own. While Nicklaus is once again free to design golf courses under his own name, Nicklaus Companies retains the rights to sell clothing and equipment with “Jack Nicklaus” logos.
