“Wild Thing” John Daly’s Claret Jug from his 1995 Open golf championship win is heading to auction.
While Daly had to give the original back before the start of the 1996 Open, he purchased two replicas as keepsakes – a traditional move by Open winners.
John Daly kisses the Claret Jug after beating Constantino Rocca in a four hole playoff
One of those two is now appearing at Heritage Auctions’ February 24-ending sale with a $100,000 estimate.
Online bidding stands at $28,000.
Daly’s swashbuckling win, which saw him tame St Andrews with his familiar mammoth driving, no-nonsense putting style and flamboyant hair, was the pinnacle of his career.
A descent into gambling and drink addiction ensured Daly never got close to a repeat performance.
Daly remains hugely popular with golf fans today – a testament to his feats in the 90s and continued anti-establishment persona.
The other replica trophy Daly bought is remaining firmly with the golfer. As he tweeted recently: “#nevergiveupmy2majortrophies”.
How does the $100,000 valuation compare?
Greg Norman’s replica from his 1986 win sold for $10,000 last year.
In 2016, one of Arnold Palmer’s Masters trophies auctioned for $444,000. That’s a testament to the enduring legacy of the Golden Bear.
The Cobra driver Daly wielded while winning his shock 1991 PGA Championship auctioned for $17,300 last year. Daly was ninth alternate for the tournament, and only got to play when Nick Price pulled out to be with his pregnant wife.
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