World Golf Hall of Fame Communications Director David Cordero caught up with Gary Player to get his thoughts on turning 80 (November 1, 2015), his dedication to physical fitness and the current landscape of today’s game.
At 80 years old, you look as vibrant and healthy as ever. You yourself have said that you are likely in better shape than most people half your age. What motivates you every morning?
Not too long ago, I asked one of the ranch hands at my farm in South Africa how old he was. He didn’t know. So I asked him when his birthday is. He said, “Every day is my birthday.” What a beautiful attitude and outlook to have on life. Honestly, I think it is some of the most important advice I have ever received. From my success on the golf course to my loving family, I am very blessed. So, I make sure to say thank you every day. Waking up in the morning is enough motivation for me to get the most I can out of life.
What would you say to someone who is struggling to get into shape? How has fitness changed your life?
Look for inspiration and dig deep down to find your inner strength. We can all do this. You have to challenge yourself to be the best. My work ethic, diet and fitness certainly are big reasons why I was successful on and off the golf course. I am turning 80, but because I have stayed in shape and made sure to eat properly, I feel closer to 40.
In your opinion, is a golfer at a disadvantage if he doesn’t work out? Why?
The only exercise a golfer used to do was put an olive from one martini glass to the next. Times have changed. Now the PGA Tour has a traveling gym. It’s proven that if you aren’t in shape, it hinders your ability to perform consistently at the top level. I am very proud to have started the trend of golfers paying close attention to their diet, health and fitness and being thought of as athletes.
You are a proud member of “The Big Three.” What do you make of Jordan Spieth, Jason Day and Rory McIlroy – three players who the media have coined the “current Big Three.” How do their talents compare to yours, Arnold’s and Jack’s? Is it fair to compare eras?
With so much young talent on the PGA Tour, golf can look forward to outstanding competition over the next several years. Can the three you mentioned be consistent? What if Rickie Fowler wins a Major next year? The media and fans shouldn’t limit this new era to just three. I am rooting for all of them. Golf needs them. But everyone’s talent is on a loan from God, and it can be lost tomorrow. If these guys can win Majors for the next 20 years, it will be tremendous for golf.
Jack, Arnold and I were very lucky to have each other. Believe me, the competition was fierce. Aside from battling on the golf course, we traveled together, practiced together and vacationed together. It was a unique situation that can’t be duplicated. Our wives were great friends. They played the biggest role in our success.
But with today’s advancement in travel, courses, equipment, it is unfair to compare eras. Just like it is unfair to compare me to Ben Hogan. Golf is constantly evolving.
What are your goals and aspirations for the next 5 years?
My main focus is doing everything in my power to help those who are less fortunate. The Player Foundation has raised more than $60 million for underprivileged children around the world, and our goal is to raise $100 million by 2020. We are well on our way with the help of our sponsors and the Gary Player Invitational charity tournaments around the world.
Watch our full interview with Gary Player
