Ouch, that hurts! For Pierceson Coody, the dream of the Masters in Augusta has likely burst this year. The 26-year-old US professional had to withdraw from the Texas Children's Houston Open – a nasty back ailment is thwarting his plans and robbing him of what was likely his last realistic chance at a Masters invitation.
Yet, the week in Houston didn't start badly at all: Coody posted a par round (70 strokes) on Thursday. But before the second round on Friday, it was over. And that's exactly what's so bitter, dear golfers: The Houston Open was the last call for all players outside the Top 50 of the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) to secure a ticket to Augusta via the world ranking. And Pierceson? He was ranked 51st before the tournament – just one spot away from the big goal.
Family History in Focus
Because Pierceson was on the verge of making history. He could have been the first grandchild of a Masters champion to tee off at the venerable Augusta National himself. His grandfather, Charles Coody, claimed victory at the Masters in 1971. The family connection runs deep: Pierceson and his twin brother Parker often attended the Par-3 Contest at Augusta as kids – as guests of their famous grandfather. Now, this dream seems a distant prospect.
A Last Straw?
Sure, in theory, there's still a tiny chance. Whoever wins next week's Valero Texas Open will snatch the very last Masters ticket. But to be at the start with an injured back and then still claim victory? That seems pretty unlikely under these circumstances, folks. Yet, the season has been really strong for Coody so far: He has already earned $1.6 million, celebrated a tied second place at the Farmers Insurance Open, and made six consecutive cuts. A real drama for the young golf pro!
