Domination of Senior Golf Tour Not Possible, According to Player

MALVERN, Pa. —  Gary Player has entered seven events this year in his debut on the PGA Senior Tour and he has won three.

Despite his success, Player said no golfer can dominate the Tour this year like Peter Thomson did in 1985, when he won nine tournaments.

“There are too many good players out there for that to happen,” Player said. “The field has increased tremendously since Peter Thomson won those nine tournaments. If you win four, that’s as good as winning nine.”

Player’s victory in last weekend’s Senior event at Chester Valley Golf Club boosted his earnings this year to $158,238, tops on the Tour.

“I’m very excited to have won the tournament,” said Player, who raised both arms in victory salute after a 5-foot putt for par on the 18th hole last Sunday. “I have three Senior wins in seven tournaments. I’ve also had a second and a third so it’s been a nice start for my Senior career.”

Player, 50, has changed very little since his days on the main PGA Tour. He still wears black clothing, although he goes for lighter shades in hot weather, and his trademark baseball cap has been replaced by a wide-brimmed fedora that gives his face more protection from the sun.

He remains in excellent physical condition, watching his diet carefully and working out regularly in a gym.

“I love food,” he said. “Eating is an enjoyable thing. I make a sacrifice at what I eat and I think it pays off.

“It’s very rewarding to come out here and feel strong and win after working so hard.”

Player said he worked out for an hour in the gym after the first two rounds of the tournament.

He’s also convinced his condition will get better as he gets older.

“Most people, unfortunately, think they’re going downhill when they reach 50,” he said. “That is not the case at all. If you look after your body, you can be going uphill at 50. My strength is going uphill.