July 9, 1977

Exactly 11 years to the day after Jack Nicklaus wins his first British Open, he is not as fortunate.

Just like the 1966 tournament, it's the 17th hole that is decisive, but this time it's Tom Watson who registers the winning birdie in their epic head-to-head duel.

Nicklaus, the king, and Watson, the man who would be king, both shot 65 yesterday and are tearing up the Turnburry course again today. Tied for the lead at 17, Watson birdies. When both players birdie 18, Watson is the winner by a stroke after his second consecutive 65.

His 268 not only breaks the British Open record of 276, but the major championship record of 271 as well.