Gary Player has reflected on his return to St. Andrews, describing the famous venue as the “Home of Golf” after shooting an impressive one-under-par 71 on the Old Course at the age of 90.
The South African golfing legend shared his thoughts after playing the historic course shortly after the conclusion of The 2026 Open Championship, calling it a privilege to once again tee it up at one of the sport’s most iconic venues.
Despite making a double bogey on the famous 17th Road Hole, Player still finished under par and said he remains grateful to be playing the game he loves at such a high level.
Gary Player Shares His St Andrews Experience
Player posted on his official X account that he and his wife, Susan, enjoyed a round at the Old Course with a few close friends after The Open.
He described the outing as “a wonderful privilege” and praised St. Andrews, noting that it is known as the Home of Golf because the modern 18-hole game began there in 1764.
“After The Open, Susan and I had the wonderful privilege of playing the Old Course with a few close friends,” Player said in a post on X. “What a thrill to share such a special experience at St. Andrews, the Home of Golf, where the 18-hole game as we know it began in 1764. I shot 71, even with a double bogey on the famous Road Hole at the 17th. At 90 years young, what a blessing to continue playing this great game on the most famous golf course in the world. I am enormously grateful. GP”
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His score could have been even lower. Player was three under par as he stood on the 17th tee before the double bogey denied him the chance to break 70. Even so, his one-under-par round was another reminder of the remarkable standard he continues to maintain.
Gary Player’s Lasting Legacy in Golf
Player is widely regarded as one of the greatest golfers in history. During his career, he won 159 professional tournaments around the world, including nine major championships. He competed against fellow legends Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus during one of golf’s greatest eras and established himself as one of the game’s all-time greats.
Although he retired from competitive golf years ago, Player has remained dedicated to his fitness and continues to play regularly. He has often spoken about shooting scores lower than his age, and his 71 at St. Andrews is another addition to that remarkable record.
Player won The Open Championship three times, with victories at Muirfield, Carnoustie, and Royal Lytham & St Annes. However, he never claimed the Claret Jug at St. Andrews, the venue many consider the spiritual home of the sport. Even without an Open victory there, his latest visit added another memorable chapter to his long and celebrated career.
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