In a landmark legal battle, golf legend Jack Nicklaus has won a $50 million defamation lawsuit against Nicklaus Companies, the enterprise now controlled by billionaire banker Howard Milstein. The jury's decision, delivered in Florida, marks a significant victory for Nicklaus, who claimed that statements made by the company regarding his involvement with LIV Golf were false and damaging.

The dispute traces back to a 2021 meeting where Nicklaus was approached by Golf Saudi regarding a potential leadership role in LIV Golf. Nicklaus contended that the subsequent public statements made by Nicklaus Companies misrepresented his intentions and harmed his reputation. The jury's ruling underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding LIV Golf and its impact on the traditional golf landscape.