John Daly Captivates Fans at Top Dawg Tavern During Masters Week

The golfing legend has found a new home for his annual Masters meet-and-greet after the closure of Hooters.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 5:52am

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An abstract, energetic painting in vibrant neon colors, depicting the lively atmosphere of a crowded sports bar filled with enthusiastic golf fans cheering and celebrating.Daly's boisterous Masters Week tradition continues to thrill fans at a new venue, as the golfing legend's outsized personality captivates crowds.Augusta Today

John Daly, the iconic and colorful golfer, has relocated his popular Masters Week fan event to Top Dawg Tavern in Augusta, Georgia after the closure of the previous Hooters location where he had hosted the event for years. The new venue is drawing large crowds of enthusiastic fans eager to meet the golfing legend, known affectionately as 'Big John' or 'Wild Thing', and the influx of visitors is providing a significant boost to the tavern's business during the busy Masters tournament.

Why it matters

John Daly has long been a beloved figure during Masters Week in Augusta, with his laidback personality and unorthodox golf style making him a fan favorite. The closure of the Hooters restaurant, where he had previously held his annual meet-and-greet, threatened to disrupt this tradition, but his move to the new Top Dawg Tavern location has allowed him to continue connecting with his loyal supporters during this important golf event.

The details

This year, Daly has set up shop at Top Dawg Tavern, located just across from the former Hooters site. The new location is attracting hundreds of fans who are eager to meet the golfing legend, take photos, and get autographs. The influx of visitors has provided a significant boost to the tavern's business during the busy Masters tournament week.

  • John Daly will be at Top Dawg Tavern every day during Masters week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • He will be at Top Golf Friday night only, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The players

John Daly

A two-time major champion golfer who is known for his colorful personality and unorthodox golf style, making him a fan favorite during Masters Week in Augusta.

Scott Stroop

A golf enthusiast from Savannah who has watched Daly play and finds him 'absolutely hilarious'.

David Langdale

The manager of Top Dawg Tavern, who says having Daly at the venue has been a 'big success' and they would love to see him return next year.

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What they’re saying

“I've watched him play, and I think he's absolutely hilarious. When we heard he'd be here, we just couldn't resist stopping by to see what was happening.”

— Scott Stroop, golf enthusiast

“Having John Daly here is definitely boosting our business. A lot of people would have headed to Hooters if it were still around, but now they're coming here specifically to see Daly.”

— David Langdale, Top Dawg Tavern manager

“The myth, the legend. Yes, ma'am. He is definitely fun to hang out with. He takes pictures with all the kids and anybody that asks for an autograph and a picture, he's there to help them out. He loves it.”

— David Langdale, Top Dawg Tavern manager

What’s next

Top Dawg Tavern hopes the restaurant becomes Daly's new landing spot during the Masters going forward, and they expect him to return next year.

The takeaway

John Daly's annual Masters Week fan event has found a new home at Top Dawg Tavern, allowing the golfing legend to continue his tradition of connecting with his loyal supporters during this important golf tournament. The move has provided a significant boost to the tavern's business, demonstrating the enduring appeal of Daly's unique personality and golfing style.