Best amateur to stroll the links since the days of Bobby Jones and Lawson Little, burly Jack Nicklaus, 22, seemed a cinch for instant stardom when he turned professional last January. Twice U.S. amateur champion, runner-up to Arnold Palmer in the 1960 U.S. Open, Nicklaus was almost unbeatable on the amateur circuit—and his aggressive, intimidating game seemed ideally suited to the challenge of the rich pro tour. His explosive drives averaged nearly 300 yds. His crisp irons were distinguished by the shovel-sized divots they left behind. His putting was bold and confident. But in his first pro tournament, the $45,000 Los...
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