Gary Player sparked controversy at Augusta National when the 90-year-old golf legend made an unexpected remark to Sky Sports presenter Anna Jackson during the annual Par 3 event, reports BritPanorama.
The South African golfer, who has claimed nine major championships and is considered one of the sport’s all-time greats, caught viewers off guard before Jackson could pose her initial question.
Player turned to the camera crew and asked, “Why have you started working with this good looking chick, huh?” Jackson, visibly taken aback, maintained her composure, responding, “What an introduction that is.”
The clip rapidly spread across social media platforms, igniting fierce debate among golf fans. Many condemned what they perceived as inappropriate conduct from the golfing icon, with one viewer commenting, “We sat there shaking our heads. The old creep,” while another stated, “He’s pandered to within golf.”
However, some viewers defended Player, citing generational differences. One supporter noted, “He is from a totally different generation, the man is 90 years old.” Others pointed to Jackson’s professionalism in handling the moment, with one remarking, “That guy always makes my skin crawl.”
While voices of criticism flourished on social media, defending perspectives emerged as well. Another viewer expressed sympathy for Player’s age, stating, “He’s 90 years old. Comes from a different era in a country with far bigger issues than upsetting a few bedwetters by calling a good looking girl, a good looking girl.”
Player holds a distinguished place in Masters history, becoming the first non-American to claim a green jacket in 1961, followed by further victories in 1974 and 1978. His record includes the most Masters appearances, having competed 52 times between 1957 and 2009. His relationship with Augusta, however, has faced complications recently, particularly after his son Wayne received a lifetime ban for a marketing stunt during the 2021 honorary starters ceremony honoring Lee Elder.
This incident highlights the challenging balance between tradition and evolving social norms in professional sports, reminding us how delicate the dynamics of public figures can be in their interactions.
