Nicklaus Companies LLC Commences Voluntary Chapter 11 Cases to Secure Financing and Pursue Restructuring
West Palm Beach, FL (November 21, 2025) — To protect its employees, clients, and ongoing business operations, Nicklaus Companies LLC (the “Company”) and certain of its subsidiaries today announced that they have commenced voluntary chapter 11 cases in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware.
The filing will allow the Company to proactively address its long-term funded indebtedness and other liabilities, as well as a jury verdict returned in a Florida state court last month following a lawsuit filed by company founder and former Co-Chair Jack Nicklaus. The jury ruled in favor of two Nicklaus Companies’ executives but awarded $50 million in damages against the Company.
Nicklaus Companies disputes the verdict and intends to explore its legal options with respect to an appeal. The chapter 11 filing, which has allowed the Company to secure a financing commitment, will stabilize and preserve Nicklaus Companies’ businesses for the benefit of its employees and clients and the legacy of the Jack Nicklaus brands as legal and restructuring options are pursued.
“We take this step to protect our brand, our client relationships, and — most importantly — our employees,” said Phil Cotton, Nicklaus Companies Chief Executive Officer. “We are dedicated to protecting the brand and continuing to offer the highest standard of service to our clients all over the world.”
Court filings and other information related to the proceedings are available on a separate website administrated by the company’s claims agent, Epiq, at https://dm.epiq11.com/GBIServices; by calling Epiq toll-free at (877) 837-7668 or, for calls originating outside of the U.S., (503) 470-2399; or by emailing .
Employees and Clients Will Not Be Affected
Nicklaus Companies is home to some of the most prestigious global brands in golf, as well as Nicklaus Design, a leader in golf-course design. With this filing, both employees and clients of the company can be assured that business operations will proceed as usual during the restructuring process and that Nicklaus Companies’ tradition of excellence will continue unabated.
“We are blessed that many of Nicklaus Companies’ employees and clients have been with the company for decades,” Mr. Cotton said. “Our employees have devoted their professional lives to the Company. Our dedication is unwavering, and everyone can be assured we will continue to serve our clients with the devotion to excellence that is the hallmark of our work.”
Financing Secured to Allow Continued Operations
To fund operations and the administration of the Company’s chapter 11 process without disruption, the Company has obtained financing that will provide funds to ensure Nicklaus Companies’ continued operating success.
Advisors/Governance
Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP and Richards, Layton & Finger P.A. are serving as legal advisors, Alvarez & Marsal North America LLC is serving as financial advisor, and Cassel Salpeter & Co., LLC is serving as investment banker to Nicklaus Companies. The Company’s restructuring efforts are being overseen by an independent committee of the Nicklaus Companies’ board of managers.
About Nicklaus Companies
Nicklaus Companies’ goal is to enhance the golf experience and to deliver quality branded products and services on a global basis that reflect the high standards of the company. The Nicklaus Companies businesses include golf-course design, the development of golf and real estate communities, and the marketing and licensing of lifestyle products and service offerings worldwide under the iconic Jack Nicklaus™, Golden Bear™ and Nicklaus™ brands.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Nicklaus Companies LLC
