Gary Player

Date of Birth: November 1, 1935

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Biography

Gary Player, born Gary Jim Player on November 1, 1935, in Johannesburg, South Africa, is one of the most accomplished golfers in the history of the sport. Known as “The Black Knight” due to his signature all-black attire, Player has had a remarkable career spanning over six decades. He turned professional in 1953 and quickly rose to prominence, winning his first major championship, The Open Championship, in 1959. Throughout his career, Gary Player amassed nine major championships, including three Masters Tournament victories, three Open Championships, two PGA Championships, and one U.S. Open, completing the career Grand Slam. He is one of only five golfers to achieve this feat, joining the ranks of Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Jack Nicklaus, and Tiger Woods. Beyond his success on the course, Player has been a global ambassador for golf, promoting the sport in various countries and contributing to its international growth. He has designed over 400 golf courses worldwide and has been involved in numerous charitable activities, particularly through The Player Foundation, which aims to improve education and health for underprivileged children. Gary Player’s dedication to fitness and longevity in sports has also been noteworthy. He has often credited his strict fitness regime and healthy lifestyle for his sustained success and longevity in professional golf.

5 Interesting Facts about Gary Player

1. Gary Player is one of only five golfers to complete the career Grand Slam, winning all four major championships.

2. He has won a total of 165 professional golf tournaments worldwide.

3. Player is an accomplished golf course designer, having designed over 400 courses across the globe.

4. Known for his fitness, Gary Player has often been called the “World’s Most Traveled Athlete,” having flown more than 15 million miles.

5. In 1965, Player became the only non-American to win all four majors in a career after winning the U.S. Open.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Gary Player

1. “The harder you work, the luckier you get.”

2. “Golf is a puzzle without an answer. I’ve played the game for 50 years and I still haven’t the slightest idea how to play.”

3. “You must work very hard to become a natural golfer.”

4. “A strong mind is one of the key components that separates the great from the good.”

5. “The more I practice, the luckier I get.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Gary Player’s highest net worth is estimated to be around $250 million.

Children

Gary Player has six children with his wife, Vivienne Verwey, whom he married in 1957. Their children are Marc, Wayne, Michele, Theresa, Jennifer, and Amanda. Several of his children have also been involved in golf and business ventures related to the sport.