It’s fair to say that Gary Player and Bryson DeChambeau are two of the most divisive characters in our sport.
Player comes out and speaks his mind at every opportunity, while DeChambeau has been criticized by some for lacking authenticity.
However, both the South African and the American have huge followings as well.
Player won an incredible 159 tournaments worldwide during his time in the game, including nine major championships.
Meanwhile, DeChambeau has two U.S. Open titles to his name, as well as nine PGA Tour wins and five LIV Golf victories.
The game is completely different now to when Gary Player was competing and, as a result of improved technology, golfers like DeChambeau seem to have it much easier than the South African legend did.
Because of that, it would be understandable if Player felt bitter towards DeChambeau and his rivals.
Gary Player says whether he actually likes Bryson DeChambeau
There is no doubt that the 32-year-old from Dallas, Texas, is one of the best golfers in the world right now.
On his day, he is capable of beating anyone, and he will undoubtedly be hopeful of winning The Masters this week.
The abstract nature of Augusta National is said to ‘drive DeChambeau nuts’, but he is still one of the favorites to win.
Gary Player was asked by Bunkered whether he believes the LIV Golf star can win The Masters this year.
He also mentioned PGA Tour star Tommy Fleetwood when giving his answer.
“Those are the two (Bryson DeChambeau and Tommy Fleetwood) that, I mean, I just love to watch those two guys play because they’re so courteous and friendly and nice to people,” Player said.
“It’s very possible.
“You know, you can never say who’s going to win majors. You can take Nicklaus, even Nicklaus, who has the best record in golf was second 19 times. I was second seven.
“But Tommy Fleetwood has a great chance, obviously. And I really wish he would.”
Bryson DeChambeau’s Masters chances assessed
On paper, DeChambeau and Fleetwood should both have a great chance of winning The Masters this year, especially the American.
He is the longest hitter in the game when he swings at full speed and he’s actually fairly accurate as well, having hit around 62% of fairways on LIV this season.
DeChambeau possesses an incredible short game as well and when he gets hot with the putter, he is a very hard man to beat.
However, the key for him at The Masters this year will be whether or not he’s able to control his irons.
He imparts more spin on his ball than any other player in the game and he has struggled to control his spin on Augusta National’s severely undulating greens in the past.
DeChambeau will surely win The Masters before his career is done. However, whether or not he’s ready to slip into a green jacket this year remains to be seen.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
