Gary Player, despite being a golf legend, was refused permission by Augusta National Golf Club to play a fourball.
The South African golfer became the first non-American to win the Green Jacket, and in an interview with the media he pointed out that he was somewhat surprised by this decision by the the management of Augusta National Golf Club.
Although he respects this decision, the legendary golfer is still outraged by this response, aware that he has left a serious mark on the world of golf.
“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,” starts Player, 90, who also went on to become the Masters champion of 1974 and 1978.
“My grandsons are dying to know about their grandfather’s episodes on that golf course,” adds Player, who has 22 grandchildren and has served as an honorary starter of the Masters since 2012.
“All the golf courses that have hosted the Open, the US Open and the PGA would oblige, but they won’t do it at Augusta.
"It is just this current management there, but these are the times we live in and I accept it, but I accept it with sadness.”
Gary Player on Augusta National
The South African golfer doesn't understand why he's not a member of the club, which of course means his grandchildren can't play with him at this prestigious course.
Gary Player has made as many as 52 Masters appearances, more than any other player.
The 90-year-old believes that he and Nicklaus, as well as Palmer, were the most important figures in the development of Augusta National, given that they attracted enormous attention to the golf course and the tournament.
The South African emphasizes that they had a great influence on the growth of Augus*a National's popularity.
