The majority of past Masters champions relish the opportunity of driving down Magnolia Lane after a victory at Augusta National Golf Club. For Gary Player, the three-time winner prefers completing the journey by foot.
“I get out of the car and walk it as a sign of gratitude,” Player said Wednesday. “I’ve won three times, second three times, top-10 14 times, most number of cuts in a row. How blessed can a man be? It’s a simple way of saying, ‘Thank you.’”
Photos: 2019 Masters Honorary Starters Ceremony
When asked about his favorite Masters memory, Player said four numbers: 1978. The South African entered the final round trailing Tom Watson and Hubert Green by seven shots, before shooting 64 to win the green jacket. Player birdied seven of his final 10 holes to win by a stroke.
“I watched the other night and started choking up,” Player said. “I was thinking, ‘Did I really win this?’”
Player also mentioned Bryson DeChambeau, and admitted to being intrigued to see how the reigning U.S. Open champion fares this week. Player predicted that length would not be the deciding factor at the 2020 Masters.
“Long hitting doesn’t win major championships,” Player said. “Long hitting is an asset, but you cannot win major championships without being a great putter. Length is a very overrated thing.”
Player was one of 26 past winners at Tuesday’s Champions Dinner, and will make his ninth appearance Thursday morning as an honorary starter.