Golf fans are always eager for glimpses into the minds of the game’s icons, and recent viral headlines have claimed that Lee Trevino, the six-time major champion known as “The Merry Mex,” has revealed his list of the five players he respects most.
The sensational story highlights legendary figures like Jack Nicklaus alongside a mysterious “rising star” named Rodriguez, promising inspiring and surprising insights into what defines greatness in golf.
However, after thorough examination, this narrative appears to be classic clickbait—fabricated to generate excitement and views. No credible sources, including recent interviews with Trevino (who turned 86 in December 2025), confirm any such list or specific mention of a “Rodriguez” as a rising talent.
Trevino, still active in exhibitions like the PNC Championship and occasional media appearances, frequently shares stories from his era but has not released a ranked top-five admiration list in recent years.
That said, Trevino’s career and public comments offer a wealth of genuine admiration for fellow golfers.
His insights, drawn from decades of competition against the best, reveal qualities like mental toughness, consistency, shot-making creativity, and resilience—traits that defined his own Hall of Fame journey from humble beginnings in Texas to 29 PGA Tour wins and World Golf Hall of Fame induction in 1981.
Trevino’s most frequently expressed respect centers on Jack Nicklaus, the Golden Bear with 18 majors. Trevino famously defeated Nicklaus in playoffs and head-to-head battles, including the 1971 U.S. Open, yet he holds Nicklaus in the highest esteem.
In interviews, Trevino has called Nicklaus the greatest of all time (GOAT), praising his mental strength, course management, and power. “Jack brought out the best in me,” Trevino has said, noting Nicklaus’s ability to perform under pressure.
Their rivalry was fierce but respectful—Nicklaus once said he had “more respect for Lee than any person I’ve ever met in the game,” citing Trevino’s rise from poverty to stardom.
Gary Player, the Black Knight and fellow Big Three member alongside Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer, earns similar praise from Trevino. Both self-made men—Player from South Africa, Trevino from Mexican-American roots in Dallas—share a work ethic forged in adversity.
Trevino admires Player’s fitness, longevity (nine majors across three decades), and global ambassadorship for golf. They’ve joked about outlasting Nicklaus in senior play, with Trevino highlighting Player’s relentless drive.
Arnold Palmer, the King, represents charisma and fan connection that Trevino appreciates. Though they competed less directly, Trevino credits Palmer for popularizing golf on television and inspiring working-class players like himself. Palmer’s aggressive style and seven majors embody the boldness Trevino values.
Ben Hogan, Trevino’s Texas predecessor, profoundly influenced him. Trevino studied Hogan’s swing secretly and adopted a fade to combat wind, crediting Hogan’s precision and comeback from a near-fatal accident as the epitome of determination. “Hogan was the best ball-striker ever,” Trevino has often said.
Seve Ballesteros rounds out recurring names in Trevino’s praise. The Spanish flair-master’s creativity around greens and five majors reminded Trevino of his own improvisational roots. Trevino lauded Seve’s imagination, saying it echoed the hustling shots he learned on dusty Texas ranges.
In modern eras, Trevino has commended Tiger Woods for dominance and resilience post-scandals/injuries, though he edges Nicklaus as superior in prime with older equipment. Recent comments praise Scottie Scheffler’s consistency and “lovely” swing.
As for a “rising star Rodriguez,” no prominent golfer by that name fits—perhaps a mix-up with José Luis Ballester or amateur talents like Andrew Rodriguez (junior level). Trevino focuses on timeless qualities: practice, mental fortitude, adaptability.
Trevino’s real “list” isn’t ranked but celebrates underdogs who maximize talent through grit. His own story—overcoming poverty, lightning strike injuries, and biases—mirrors those he admires most. In a sport evolving with distance and technology, Trevino’s views remind us greatness lies in heart and hustle, not just scores.
While the viral claim is unfounded, exploring Trevino’s genuine respects offers timeless inspiration. His wit and wisdom continue enlightening fans, proving why he’s beloved beyond trophies.
In modern eras, Trevino has commended Tiger Woods for dominance and resilience post-scandals/injuries, though he edges Nicklaus as superior in prime with older equipment. Recent comments praise Scottie Scheffler’s consistency and “lovely” swing.
As for a “rising star Rodriguez,” no prominent golfer by that name fits—perhaps a mix-up with José Luis Ballester or amateur talents like Andrew Rodriguez (junior level). Trevino focuses on timeless qualities: practice, mental fortitude, adaptability.
Trevino’s real “list” isn’t ranked but celebrates underdogs who maximize talent through grit. His own story—overcoming poverty, lightning strike injuries, and biases—mirrors those he admires most. In a sport evolving with distance and technology, Trevino’s views remind us greatness lies in heart and hustle, not just scores.
While the viral claim is unfounded, exploring Trevino’s genuine respects offers timeless inspiration. His wit and wisdom continue enlightening fans, proving why he’s beloved beyond trophies.
