Gary Player: Augusta Denies Legend Round with Grandchildren – Drama Under the Georgia Pines
Gary Player, the South African legend with 9 Major victories, is deeply saddened. His wish to play a foursome round with three of his grandchildren on the hallowed grounds of Augusta National was flatly rejected. What a blow for the Black Knight!
The now 90-year-old Player revealed to Golf Monthly: This special round on the legendary Masters course, where he himself claimed 3 of his Major titles, remains denied to him.
"I have been an 'ambassador' for Augusta all these years, and yet they won't grant me a single round with my three grandchildren on this course," said Player, who was allowed to don the Green Jacket in 1961, 1974, and 1978.
Let's remember: Player was the first golfer ever to win the Masters as a non-American. A true pioneering achievement!
"My grandchildren are eager to hear their grandfather's stories on this golf course," recounted the man who has been an Honorary Starter at the Masters since 2012. "That would be an amazing memory for them."
"All other courses that have hosted The Open, US Open, or PGA Championships would grant us this wish. But not in Augusta." Player's statement really pulled no punches.
"It's just the current leadership there," Player continued. "But that's just how things are these days. I accept it – but with sadness in my heart."
Between 1957 and 2009, Player made an incredible 52 Masters appearances – a record! However: He is not a member at Augusta National. And as we know, on the famous layout under the Georgia pines, only club members can invite guests. As a non-member, one quickly finds oneself out of luck.
Player, who has an astounding 22 grandchildren, revealed to the magazine that he values his time at Augusta National above all else.
"When I am there, I feel as if I am entering a golf course in heaven," Player gushed. "I tread very carefully and love Augusta so much, but all these rules... I simply don't like them."
Player also emphasized that he, 18-time Major winner Jack Nicklaus, and the sadly departed Arnold Palmer, a 7-time Major Champion in his own right, significantly contributed to the reputation of the Masters. True legends who truly made the tournament great.
"We made Augusta what it is – thanks to the coverage and publicity we generated around the Masters. Whether the club likes it or not," Player clarified to Golf Monthly. "They won't admit it, but we made Augusta."
He hopes that his stance is respected, just as he respects the opinions of others, even when he doesn't agree.
"One of the things I've learned at 90 is that I wish for respect for my opinions..." said Player. "...but also respect the views of others. We m
