The Play Yellow initiative, associated with Tiger Woods, has become a powerful charitable movement since its inception. Launched in 2019, it has raised over $130 million to support more than 170 children’s hospitals across North America, impacting thousands of young patients. The initiative’s roots reach back decades to a simple but profound story involving golf legend Jack Nicklaus and a young boy battling cancer, underscoring how a small gesture can evolve into a lasting legacy.
In the late 1960s, Barbara Nicklaus received devastating news from Mary Lou Smith, her minister’s wife: her 10-year-old son, Craig Smith, had been diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma, a rare type of bone cancer. Craig was an ardent fan of Jack Nicklaus, and this connection would soon inspire a life-changing friendship. This poignant history resurfaced recently when Tiger Woods’ niece, Cheyenne Woods, highlighted it on her On Tee To Dream podcast, showcasing the emotional foundation of the Play Yellow charity campaign.
How a Friendship Sparked a Tradition of Hope and Courage
Upon hearing of Craig’s diagnosis, Barbara Nicklaus acted immediately. She facilitated a phone call between Jack Nicklaus and Craig, which blossomed into a weekly connection between the two. During one of these conversations after a tournament win, Craig revealed a significant secret to Jack.
Barbara recalled this moment during an interview for the Under the Umbrella YouTube series, sharing,
“Mary called, and she said, Barbara, Craig’s just been diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma. He’s a big fan of Jack’s. Do you think Jack would ever call him?”
—Barbara Nicklaus
Barbara continued,
“And I said, well, of course he would, Mary Lou. We’ll get that done immediately.”
—Barbara Nicklaus
This simple act led to a touching exchange that turned into a golf tradition. Barbara explained,
“Craig said, Jack, you know why you won today? And Jack said, ‘Well, no, why Craig?’ And he said, ‘Because I had on my lucky yellow shirt,’”
she said, followed by,
“And Jack said, well, Craig, if you can wear yellow for me, I can wear yellow for you.”
—Barbara Nicklaus
From that Sunday onward, Jack donned a yellow shirt to honor his young friend. Despite Craig’s passing in 1971 at the age of 13, Jack Nicklaus carried on this heartfelt tribute for decades, planting the seeds for what would become Play Yellow.
Barbara Nicklaus’ Enduring Influence and Commitment to Charity
Barbara Nicklaus has played a critical role in the evolution of golf’s charitable landscape, extending far beyond her support of Jack’s career. Often called golf’s “First Lady,” her leadership spans over six decades and has created a profound humanitarian impact. In 1988, she contributed to founding the PGA Tour Wives Association, which has raised more than $5 million for children’s charities.
Her dedication has been formally recognized with prestigious honors, including the Bob Jones Award in 2015, the PGA Distinguished Service Award in 2019, and most recently being named the 2025 Memorial Tournament Honoree—the first non-golfer to receive this distinction among 84 honorees. These accolades underscore her vast contribution to the sport and community.
The Play Yellow initiative stands as Barbara’s most significant philanthropic achievement alongside Jack Nicklaus. Her powerful declaration at the campaign’s launch captured its spirit:
“There isn’t a higher calling than helping a child in need,”
she said.
The initiative has far exceeded its initial $100 million target, symbolizing hope and support for countless children and families facing medical challenges. The yellow ribbon worn across tournaments carries forward Craig Smith’s memory, representing both a personal bond and a broad mission of compassion nurtured by Barbara’s unwavering commitment.
The Lasting Impact and Future of the Play Yellow Campaign
The story behind the Tiger Woods charitable Play Yellow initiative highlights the profound ways in which personal experiences can fuel transformative charity work in professional sports. What started as a small gesture of wearing yellow to honor a dying child has grown into a monumental effort supporting children’s hospitals and improving lives throughout North America.
Barbara Nicklaus’ emotional recounting not only sheds light on the initiative’s powerful roots but also emphasizes the enduring legacy of hope that golf can inspire beyond the game. This campaign reflects the values of perseverance, friendship, and altruism, with a reach expected to grow as it continues to rally support and raise vital funds for young patients and their families.
Looking ahead, the Play Yellow campaign will likely expand its influence and fundraising goals, continuing to honor the memory of Craig Smith while rallying the golf community and beyond to address pediatric health challenges. Barbara Nicklaus’ role serves as a reminder that heartfelt leadership and empathy remain at the core of lasting contributions within sports and society.