Golf Legend Gary Player Denied Request to Play Masters Course with Grandsons

Three-time Masters champion expresses disappointment after Augusta National rejects his wish to share the iconic course with his family.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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In a surprising move, golf legend Gary Player has revealed that Augusta National denied his request to play a casual round on the Masters course with his three grandsons. The 90-year-old, who has won the prestigious tournament three times, described the decision as "sad" and expressed deep disappointment at being denied the opportunity to share the iconic course with his family.

Why it matters

Player's history with Augusta National runs deep, as he has served as an honorary starter at the Masters for years, kicking off the tournament with a ceremonial tee shot. The denial of his request to play with his grandsons has raised questions about the club's strict policies and whether they have gone too far in prioritizing tradition over accommodating their legendary players, especially as they age.

The details

According to Player, he simply asked to play a fourball round on the Masters course with his three grandsons, a request that was flatly denied by the club. Player didn't hold back his feelings, describing the decision as "sad" and expressing deep disappointment that he was not allowed to share the magic of Augusta with his family.

  • Gary Player won the Masters in 1961, 1974, and 1978.

The players

Gary Player

A three-time Masters champion and legendary golfer who has served as an honorary starter at the tournament for years.

Augusta National

The exclusive golf club that hosts the annual Masters Tournament and is known for its strict policies and traditions.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Gary Player (Twitter)

What’s next

It is unclear if Augusta National will reconsider Player's request or issue a public statement addressing the situation. The club is known for its reluctance to comment on internal matters, which has allowed Player's emotional account to dominate the narrative.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the tension between honoring tradition and accommodating the wishes of legendary players, especially as they age. While Augusta National is renowned for its strict policies, many believe the club should make exceptions for its most revered champions, like Gary Player, to share the magic of the Masters with their families.