Gary Player’s Comment on Augusta National Women’s Tournament

Golfing Legend Gary Player Criticizes Augusta National Women’s Amateur

Gary Player, the renowned golfing legend, made a guest appearance on a broadcast recently, which led to a cringeworthy comment about the Augusta National Women’s Amateur tournament.

During the first-round broadcast of the DP World Tour’s Nedbank Golf Challenge in Player’s native South Africa, the topic turned to Augusta National’s recent decision to admit LPGA legend Annika Sorenstam as a member. Player initially praised the club’s decision, stating, “To see Annika Sorenstam made a member of Augusta, they never allowed women, and now to see a woman be a member, I think it’s fantastic. She’s the best lady golfer in the world, or was – wonderful to see, isn’t it?”

However, when asked if he felt the same way about the Augusta National Women’s Amateur, which started in 2019, Player responded, “I don’t agree with you on that,” resulting in an awkward silence.

“Come on Gary ??‍♂️??‍♂️ @NoLayingUp #NGC2023”

– Matt Hillier (@wingazz) November 9, 2023

Player, a three-time Masters champion, has been openly critical of Augusta National in recent times. In an interview with The Times earlier this year, he expressed his frustration with the club, stating, “After all I’ve contributed to the tournament and been an ambassador for them, I can’t go and have a practice round there with my three grandchildren without having to beg a member to play with us, and there’s always some excuse. It’s terribly, terribly sad.”