Gary Player, the legendary South African golfer, has expressed his disappointment over Augusta National Golf Club’s refusal to permit him to play a round of golf with three of his grandsons. At 90 years old, Player, who made history as the first non-American to don the Green Jacket in 1961, feels a deep connection to the iconic course where he became Masters champion in both 1974 and 1978.
Despite not holding an official ambassadorial title for Augusta, Player’s significant contributions and historic achievements at the Masters tie him closely to the golf club established by Bobby Jones in Georgia in 1932. “I have been an ambassador for Augusta for all these years, yet they won’t let me have one round of golf in my life with my three grandsons,” he remarked, highlighting his desire for his family to understand his experiences on the course.
With 22 grandchildren, Player has served as the honorary starter of the Masters since 2012, yet he finds it disheartening that while other prestigious tournaments like the Open and the US Open are more accommodating, Augusta’s current management has drawn stricter lines. “These are the times we live in and I accept it, but I accept it with sadness,” he added.
Player’s connection to the Masters is unparalleled, as he holds the record for the most appearances in the tournament, having played 52 times from 1957 to 2009. However, being a non-member limits his ability to invite guests, a privilege reserved for Augusta National members. Historically, few professional golfers have gained membership at Augusta, creating a sense of exclusivity. Notably, Player is the only member of golf’s illustrious “Big Three”—which includes Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus—who has not been invited to join the prestigious club.
While he appreciates the legacy of Augusta and its founding figures, Player is candid about his feelings towards the club’s management. He recognizes the vital role he, Palmer, and Nicklaus played in elevating the Masters’ status and visibility, stating, “We made Augusta thanks to the coverage and publicity we generated around the Masters.”
In a reflective tone, Player acknowledged the importance of mutual respect for opinions, closing with a sentiment that resonates not just within sports but in broader social interaction: “Just as I hope people can have respect for my opinions, I also respect the opinions of others.” Player’s dedication and passion for the game and Augusta National continue to shine through, even in the face of his recent disappointment.