In a classic display of old-school grumpiness that would make even Clint Eastwood nod in approval, golf legend Jack Nicklaus has voiced his discontent with the PGA Tour's decision to reschedule The Memorial Tournament to a week before the US Open. The Golden Bear might be roaring at the PGA Tour not to mess with his schedule—or his lawn, for that matter.

Nicklaus criticized the PGA Tour for shifting The Memorial Tournament, traditionally played two weeks before the US Open and the week after Memorial Day, to this inconvenient slot. It seems even legends have to put up with corporate shuffling.

Interestingly, Nicklaus had originally agreed to the rescheduling at the PGA Tour’s request to help with their shiny new "signature event series." Imagine saying yes to your neighbor's request to use your backyard for a barbecue, only to find out they’ve invited the entire town. It’s no wonder Jack’s wanting people off his (metaphorical) lawn.

The agreement might be slowly leading Nicklaus to form a slight regret, given the decline in attendance on Memorial Day compared to previous years. It turns out, when people are busy with hot dogs and fireworks, they might not have time to watch a golf tournament. Who could’ve predicted that?

Nicklaus, perhaps channeling the cautious spirit of every golfer who’s ever faced an impossible putt, emphasized that he would rarely play a week before any major tournament. It's a practice he likely would have encouraged his younger self to follow if time travel were as simple as a chip shot. The Golden Bear stressing this point seems like subtle advice to modern pros: beware the overpacked schedule.

Yet, despite his frustrations with the calendar chaos, Nicklaus remains graciously supportive of the PGA Tour, aiming to back what's best for The Memorial Tournament. Legendary loyalty, after all, is always on brand for Jack. Although, one might wonder if deep down he's nursing a desire to give the PGA Tour a stern talking-to. Which, honestly, would probably be one for the highlight reels.

Let's not forget that The Memorial Tournament is one of the eight signature events of the PGA Tour this year, featuring reduced playing fields and hefty purses reaching $20 million. While these figures are pretty enough to impress even Scrooge McDuck, it’s apparent that not all that glitters is gold when it comes to timing. Big bucks, small fields, and one very inconvenienced legend.

Ultimately, as Jack squints at the new schedule, one can't help but picture him shaking his head, muttering under his breath about the youth these days and their crazy ideas. But like the classic champion he is, you can count on him to keep showing up, supporting the sport he’s helped build—even if it means he has to take the occasional metaphorical pitchfork to fend off the calendar changes.