A nine-time major champion, Player earned the nickname “The Black Knight” thanks to his dashing looks and outfit choices on the course.
Born on Nov. 1, 1935, and with more than 150 worldwide career wins to his name, Player has been much more than just a champion golfer. He has dedicated his life to growing the game throughout his native South Africa and the world.
Player became just the fourth golfer to earn a career grand slam with his win at the 1965 U.S. Open at Bellerive. From there, he would go on to five more majors. As a senior, Player would tack on nine more major championships.
Following his playing career, Player continued his work as a global ambassador for the game. Sharing stories, swing tips and even showing off his fitness prowess, Player has been an endearing figure within the game throughout eight decades.
From helping underprivileged children across the globe to having a hand in designing over 400 golf courses, Player has made an impact well past his wins on Tour.
Gary Player poses for a photo.Holding up his trophy, Gary Player (center), winner of the British Open Golf Championship, smiles here,…Gary Player of South Africa kisses the trophy he received winning the British Open Golf Championship.South African professional golfer Gary Player stands with arms akimbo as he examines the course of…AUGUSTA, GA - APRIL 1965: Arnold Palmer, left, talks with Gary Player, center, and Jimmy Demaret…4/9/1975- Augusta, GA-: South African golfer Gary Player in action at the Augusta Golf Tournament.AUGUSTA, GA - APRIL 1980: Gary Player lines up his putt during the 1980 Masters Tournament…Golf: 53rd PGA Championship: Gary Player in action during Thursday play at PGA National GC.Gary Player 1991 Vantage ChampionshipGary Player 1995 Vantage ChampionshipAugusta, GA.: Defending champion Tom Watson (L), helps 1978 Masters winner Gary Player with the traditional…AUGUSTA, GA - APRIL 1985: Gary Player looks over the course with his caddie during the…AUGUSTA, GA - APRIL 1990: Golfer Gary Player swings and watches the flight of his ball…UNITED STATES - OCTOBER 23: Gary Player and Jack Nicklaus during the 51st Senior PGA Championship…ST ANDREWS, SCOTLAND - JULY 11: Gary Player of South Africa interacts with the crowd on…GEORGE, SOUTH AFRICA - NOVEMBER 23: Gary Player, Captain of The International team and Jack Nicklaus,…Gary Player of South Africa holds the Claret Jug as Champion golfer after winning the 1997…AUGUSTA, GA - APRIL 07: Honorary starter Gary Player of South Africa plays his shot on…THE WOODLANDS, TEXAS - APRIL 30: Gary Player of South Africa competes on the 10th hole…UNITED STATES - SEPTEMBER 23: Jack Nicklaus, Captain of the U.S. team and Gary Player, Captain…ORLANDO, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 16: Gary Player of South Africa waves to the crowd on the…
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