Why PGA Tour chief Ted Finchem believes Tiger Woods is the greatest golfer of all time

US PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem believes Tiger Woods is the greatest golfer ever to play the sport, ranking his achievements ahead of Jack Nicklaus despite winning fewer majors than the “Golden Bear.”

Finchem, who is preparing to head into retirement, said former world number one Woods had played a transformative role in the history of the sport similar to the effect Michael Jordan had in the NBA.

“He’s the only living player to win 79 times, and only one player has ever won more,” Finchem said of Woods.

“He’s the only active player to have won 14 majors, and only one player has won more,” he added.

“I love Jack Nicklaus beyond belief, but I have to put Tiger down as probably the greatest player to ever play, and the way he did it and his domination at a time when you’re bringing more and more good players along, is incredible.

“It lifted all boats. I always refer to it as kind of like Michael Jordan in the NBA. He just lifted boats and brought in so many new fans to the game and changed it.”

Woods is preparing to make his comeback in California next month after missing the past year with a niggling back injury.