The annual Golfweek Masters survey always gets to the heart of the matter. Leave it to Matt Kuchar to explain the joy of making the turn onto Magnolia Lane during the second week of April.
“I get goose bumps every time,” he said. “That turn down Magnolia Lane is like coming down the stairs as a kid at Christmas. You just know something awesome is around the corner.”
Sneak Peek: Questions and Answers from Gary Player
We spoke to past Masters champions, major winners, Hall of Famers, and competitors past and present for this year’s edition. As an appetizer of sorts, we’re giving you a sneak peek into the questions still to come, with the full survey of none other than Gary Player, the three-time champion. We had questions, and he had answers. Our favorite?
Question: What was the best help you ever got from a caddie at Augusta National that helped you succeed?
Gary Player’s Answer: “That was Nipper in 1961 when I beat Arnold Palmer to win my first green jacket. On the fourth hole, I had a six-footer for par. He said right lip, and I thought left lip. We conversed, and Nipper said, ‘If it’s not right, you don’t have to pay me.’ So, I hit it right lip, and it went in. We went on to win.”
Conclusion
Remember to check back on Golfweek.com for the best answers from more than two dozen pros as we continue to reveal the full survey. You’ll be entertained and learn a few new things along the way about some of your favorite Masters competitors, including their picks to win this year.
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As an SEO and high-end copywriter, I have carefully crafted this article to include strong and rich keywords for maximum impact. The annual Golfweek Masters survey is a highly anticipated event that always gets to the heart of the matter. We spoke to past Masters champions, major winners, Hall of Famers, and current competitors for this year’s edition, and none other than three-time champion Gary Player had some insightful answers.
In this sneak peek, we reveal some of the questions and answers from the full survey, including Player’s memorable moment with his caddie during his first green jacket win. We also address frequently asked questions about the Masters, including the challenges players face on the course, sought-after souvenirs, and notable changes over the years.
Player also shares some personal insights, such as his preferred place to stay during the tournament and the valuable advice he received from his late wife. With over two dozen pros participating in the survey, stay tuned for more entertaining and informative answers, including their picks to win this year’s Masters.
Don’t forget to check back on Golfweek.com for the full survey and the latest updates on the tournament. And for a visual of the excitement on the course, take a look at the photo of patrons watching the action during the first round of the 2023 Masters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What stands out to players about the Masters Tournament?
The enthusiasm by the galleries and the fact that the tournament is played at the same venue every year. Augusta National knows how to make it better and better.
Are there any specific challenges on the course that players face?
If the flag is on the front left at No. 6 and you push your ball to the top plateau, you might think you have three chances. But in reality, you have absolutely none.
What is a sought-after souvenir for players at the Masters?
A Master pin flag that you can get signed by past champions.
Are there any secret hidden gems at Augusta National?
You will never, ever find a weed. I’m sure the greenskeeper would be fired if anyone found a weed.
What happens to the green jackets won by players?
Some players keep them, but many donate them to charity.
Have there been any interesting incidents involving players and their badges?
My church minister from South Africa, who was touring America, asked me for a ticket. I made the mistake of giving him my own badge. When he came to the gates, the security guards grabbed him to question how he obtained Gary Player’s badge. Fortunately, the chairman at the time, Bill Lane from Texas, who was the ultimate gentleman, took care of the matter.
Are there any special places or rooms at Augusta National that hold significance for players?
Any room that has President Eisenhower or Bobby Jones in it. Though the Champions Locker Room has an ambiance like no other.
If you could play only one hole at Augusta National, which one would you choose?
I would walk them all.
Have there been any notable changes to the course over the years?
The changes were necessary because the players are hitting the ball so far now. I’m not sure how much more they can take the tee back.
Is there a specific caddie who made a significant impact on your game at the Masters?
That was Nipper in 1961 when I beat Palmer to win my first green jacket. On the fourth hole, I had a six-footer for par. He said right lip, and I thought left lip. We conversed, and Nipper said if it’s not right, you don’t have to pay me. So, I hit it right lip, and it went in. We went on to win.
Where did you prefer to stay during the Masters Tournament?
When I was competing, I preferred the most ordinary house but as close to the club as possible. It was a reminder every day how lucky I am.
Is there anyone who provided valuable advice to you during your career?
Most of the advice I received and took came from my late wife, Vivienne. She was a talented golfer herself and knew the swing well.
Did you have any significant discussions with influential people about Augusta and your success at the Masters?
Senator Sam Nunn visited me in South Africa on my farm, and we had many discussions about Augusta and my success at the Masters.
Who do you think Augusta National suits in terms of players’ games?
Augusta really suits the games of Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka. I hope to welcome both of them as fellow Masters champions one day.
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