Gary Player’s Bold Remarks at Masters Target Fast Food and Golf’s Future

AUGUSTA, Ga. — Golf legend Gary Player, 89, offered candid insights on health, golf, and the state of the sport during his ceremonial tee shot at the Masters Tournament on Thursday.

After joining fellow icons Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson to kick off the event, Player addressed journalists, diving headfirst into topics ranging from his own longevity to the evolving nature of professional golf.

Player, a nine-time major champion, was asked about the last time he indulged in fast food, a question inspired by Tiger Woods‘ infamous Arby’s meals during his historic 1997 Masters victory. Player responded humorously, “Well, you don’t reach 90 as I do if you eat a bunch of crap. I can tell you that.” He emphasized personal choices in diet, stating, “I want to live to 100 because I love people. I love golf. I just love life.”

Reflecting on personal life changes, he added, “I’ve got a young girlfriend — I’ve changed my life. How about that, at 90, finding a girlfriend?” His comments carried a deeper message about resilience, reminding listeners, “The greatest gift bestowed upon a man or woman is life.”

Player also discussed his commitment to a healthier lifestyle, revealing insights from a gerontologist he met in India. “So I might drop dead tomorrow, but I’m giving it a hell of a try,” he said, displaying his characteristic grit.

On the future of golf, Player expressed concern about the current training methods for young pros. “For every golfer that decides to be a professional golfer, you can basically determine they’re not going to make it,” he said, citing the changing nature of the game. “The teaching today is far worse than when we played golf as young people,” he added, criticizing modern coaching techniques.

He highlighted the potential for a new generation of powerful athletes to reshape the sport. “Wait until you get a LeBron James or Michael Jordan,” he predicted. “They’re going to drive many of the par-4s.”

When prodded about the PGA Tour’s relationship with the Saudi Public Investment Fund and LIV Golf, Player emphasized the importance of forgiveness rather than confrontation. “Confrontation is a terrible thing,” he stated. “Whether they will or not, time will tell. But it would be ideal if everybody could get together again.”

Regarding Tiger Woods, Player reflected on Woods’ injury struggles, recognizing the difficulties that many golfers face with their bodies over time. “He’s been unlucky,” Player said, referring to Woods’ recent health issues.

Player concluded with the importance of accountability to the media, urging players to engage with reporters after games, regardless of their performance. “Nobody likes to have a bad round, but that’s part of life,” he asserted.

On the issue of slow play, the golf icon exclaimed, “Slow play is a curse for golf. People are watching pro golf…and when they see us taking our time, they do it.” He stressed that quicker play is essential not just for professionals, but for the health of the sport overall.