Two generations of the Player family have now clashed with Augusta National. While one infamous incident led to a lifetime ban, a new complaint reveals a different kind of struggle for the golf legend at the historic club.

The first incident goes back to the 2021 honorary starter ceremony odyssey. Gary’s son, Wayne Player, was caddying for his father. However, what he did during the moment of silence for Lee Elder sparked significant controversy.

Wayne stood behind Elder, holding a box of OnCore golf balls. Many people criticized the incident as an "ambush marketing" initiative. While the incident violated club traditions, the main offense was disrespecting Elder by using his tribute for a marketing stunt.

Wayne later admitted to Golf Digest, "I understand why people took offense to it. Jack, the Golden Bear himself, told me, ‘What are you thinking?’ I said, ‘You know, Jack, you’re right.’ You have to be accountable when you mess up."

Wayne Player was given a lifelong ban. He could never be on the property during the Masters ever again.

Now, Gary Player is facing his own struggle with the club.

Gary Player Calls Out Augusta National

Player recently wanted to give his grandsons the Augusta experience, the place where he won three Masters. However, it wasn't possible. As Player explained:

"I have been an ambassador for Augusta for all these years, yet they won’t let me have one round of golf in my life with my three grandsons. My grandsons are dying to know about their grandfather’s episodes on that golf course."

While Gary Player became an honorary starter back in 2012, that didn't come with being granted membership. As a result, while his championship status gives him the privilege to play at Augusta, the lack of membership means he cannot bring a guest.

And it's not the first time he's complained about this. Back in 2023, he spoke about the same thing when he said, "A lot of people assume that I have those privileges, but they’re wrong. If I want to play a practice round with friends, I can’t just call the pro shop and make those arrangements."

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Written by

Abhishek Sharma

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar