Golf Icon Gary Player Under Fire for Controversial Interview Remark
Hall-of-famer Gary Player has been accused of crossing a professional boundary during an interview with esteemed golf reporter Anna Jackson at The Masters' Par 3 event. The incident unfolded as Jackson and her crew prepared to speak with the 90-year-old legend, when Player abruptly interrupted with a comment that has since ignited a firestorm on social media.
The Controversial Exchange
As Jackson, a highly regarded figure in the golf world with roles at the Golf Channel and NBC, approached Player, he cut her off with a quick greeting: "How are you guys? No wonder you're smiling, working with this good-looking chick, eh...?" Jackson maintained her composure but was visibly taken aback by the remark. She responded professionally, saying, "OK, well, Mr Player ... what an introduction that is," before seamlessly transitioning to questions about his game and form at the event.
She inquired, "You're obviously one-third of the great honorary starters come Thursday morning. Here you are back at the Par 3, you look so good, you're playing some good golf, how are you feeling?" demonstrating her expertise and focus on the sport despite the awkward start.
Social Media Storm Erupts
Immediately following the interview, a storm exploded across social media platforms, with many users labeling Player's comment as "creepy" and "inappropriate." One fan expressed outrage, stating, "He is an old creep and he's pandered to within golf." Another highlighted the broader implications, noting, "Did anyone else hear Gary Player refer to Anna Jackson as a 'good-looking chick' live on Sky Sports last night? The worrying thing is, many people will think that type of behaviour is absolutely fine."
However, a significant number of fans rushed to Player's defense, attributing the remark to his age and generational differences. One supporter argued, "He's 90 years old for god's sake. The mind isn't quite what it was when we were much younger." Another on Facebook added, "This is what happens when you're older. Give the guy a break. If she couldn't laugh it off she's got a problem." Echoing this sentiment, others pointed out, "He is from a totally different generation, the man is 90 years old."
Additional Criticism Over Age-Related Boasts
Player faced further scrutiny for another comment during the interview, where he boasted about his golfing achievements relative to his age. He stated, "Well, I'm 90 years old, and I'm still shooting par. I've had three birdies already — it's a thrill for me. I've been coming here 68 times, back to when one of my heroes, President Eisenhower, was here." Golf reporter Sam Harrop quickly called attention to this, tweeting, "Stat alert: Gary Player just said he's beaten his age over 3,400 times ... in a row."
This led to additional criticism from fans, with one remarking, "Not like Gary to big himself up is it?" Another dismissed his accomplishments, saying, "Never seen someone so proud of themselves and nobody even cares about his old man accomplishments." Others were more blunt, labeling it "short-man syndrome" and commenting, "He does chat bollocks, doesn't he?"
The incident has sparked a broader conversation about professionalism in sports journalism and generational attitudes, leaving the golf community divided over Player's conduct at one of the sport's most prestigious events.
