Best Iron Players in the World: Golf Legends Ranked by Skill

Based on historical significance, we recognised sources such as the PGA Tour and GiveMeSport which included memorable iron shots, versatility in challenging conditions, and Major wins.

This was a normalized score derived from the following:

• PGA Tour & European Tour/DP World Tour wins
• Major championship victories
• Iron-specific metrics (eg Strokes Gained: Approach, Greens in Regulation)
• Clutch iron performances in high-pressure situations

One of golf’s undisputed greats, Ben Hogan’s iron skills were mesmerising. Part of the exclusive Career Slam club, Hogan’s swing was rooted in strong technique.

His shot at the 1950 US Open in Merion was iconic, landing in the heart of the green, and he forced a play-off, which he won. Hogan was a trailblazer, and he was supported by a formidable ‘SB Score’.

A modern phenomenon, Tiger Woods’ iron shots reshaped the game. Apart from having one of the longest-winning PGA Tour streaks (seven), the American won the Masters on five occasions.

One of his standout moments came in the 2000 Canadian Open, where he flushed a perfect 6-iron shot from a bunker to set up the win, and he always created a buzz. Despite an excellent showing, he was narrowly pipped in our overall ranking by Hogan.

Lee Trevino never deviated from his principles. If he had 140 yards from the middle of the fairway, he would opt for a low hook or a high fade. Deadly with a wedge in hand, his hall contact was incredible, and in terms of golf legends ranked by accuracy, third spot is merited.

Characterised by his superb links play, Tom Watson had an amazing career that resulted in eight major wins. His course management at Augusta was superb, and his iron play shaped his success at the Open. He would have won it a sixth time had he not succumbed in a play-off to Stewart Cink in 2009.

Unsurpassed in terms of Major wins (18), the Jack Nicklaus vs Tiger Woods GOAT debate still rages on. There were few like Nicklaus, who will always be remembered for his stunning 1-iron shot at the 1972 US Open at Pebble Beach. Settling inches from the flag, it oozed class, and Nicklaus returned a strong ‘SB Market Index’ score.

Sir Nick Faldo was a man who rose to the big occasion. A model of consistency, his game was based around hitting as many fairways and greens as possible. He was fabulous for distance control, and his career was littered with success in the majors, most notably his six Open Championship triumphs.

Having recently completed the Career Slam, Rory McIlroy’s approach shots are a sight to behold. Benefitting from being one of the longest drivers on the Tour, the Ulsterman’s high draw at the Masters in the final round was superb. McIlroy also shot one of the lowest golf scores ever (a 63 at the Open in 2010), which further underlines his iron play abilities.

Usually near the top of the PGA Tour performance metrics, Scottie Scheffler’s iron game rarely lets him down, and there are no obvious weaknesses. He can hit the ball both ways, and while he returned a solid ‘SB Score’, he could well climb this list if he continues playing the way he is currently.

An excellent ball striker, Johnny Miller was precision personified. He could vary the flight of his shots, and his low fade mastery was a core strength. One of his highlights was his 63 carded in the final round of the 1973 US Open, and he hit all 18 greens in regulation, which is a rare feat.