Photo by Jim Mandeville

Jack Nicklaus is known as the world’s most accomplished golfer, having won 18 majors in an historic career that, off the course, is far from over. Now, Nicklaus can add the title Ambassador of Golf to his resume.

The North Palm Beach resident was tapped as this year’s ambassador for serving as a steward of the game and using his platform to help not only the golf community but also the general community.

Nicklaus received the honor during the Bridgestone Invitational at Firestone Country Club in Akron, Ohio. A ceremony on the first tee drew thousands of fans to the ropes.

“Golf has given everything to my family and me, so if I am able to give back in any way, great or small, I have tried to do that,” Nicklaus said in a press release.

And he has. In South Florida, he and wife Barbara have served as tireless philanthropists, creating the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation, a nonprofit that supports sick boys and girls and their families. He also is chairman of The First Tee, a successful businessman and a designer of golf courses all over the world.

“Jack Nicklaus is the embodiment of all that the Ambassador of Golf Award represents,” PGA Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem said in the release.

Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation, North Palm Beach, Waterfront Properties