Gary Player - The Legend

A Record Masters

Apr 1, 2008 | Filed Under: Events & Tournaments | Comments: 1   

For Gary Player, the 2008 Masters will be a record-breaking feat as the Black Knight tees off in his 51st Masters – a record milestone to cap his emotional 50th appearance in 2007. Player has won the Masters three times (in 1961, 1974 and 1978) and, with his first victory in 1961 became the first International player to win. Amazingly, after winning two more times he was still the only non-American victor until Spain’s Seve Ballesteros won in 1980.

One of his last remaining records, 23 consecutive cuts made, was equalled by 2009 Presidents Cup captain Fred Couples in 2007 and, with two low opening rounds, Couples could make that record his in 2008.

Over the years, many other South Africans have played in the Masters and recently several have come close to winning, but have had to settle for the runner-up spot. Ernie Els was denied by Phil Mickelson in 2004, while Tim Clark, Rory Sabbatini and Retief Goosen have all filled the same spot in recent years. Another record to be set this year is the largest number of South African entrants ever. Joining Gary Player will be Els, Goosen, Clark, Sabbatini, Immelman and, making his Masters début, is young Richard Sterne, who will bring the number to seven.

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