S12, Ep24: The Black Knight Returns. Gary Player Talks Greatness, Longevity, Oakmont, Hogan, Locke, & Nicklaus
- S12E24
- 45:51
- May 24th 2025
In this very special edition of Next on the Tee, I welcome back one of the greatest players in golf history—Mr. Gary Player. For the past 12 years,I've had the incredible honor of spending time with Mr. Player, a true legend whose achievements on and off the course are unmatched. With more worldwide victories than any other golfer and the distinction of being the only player to complete the career Grand Slam on both the PGA and Champions Tours, Gary Player’s place in golf history is undeniable. As Rory McIlroy joins the elite Grand Slam club, Mr. Player reflects on the significance of that achievement and the greatness of fellow legends like Ben Hogan and Bobby Lcke. He also shares powerful insights on mental strength, preparing for major championship pressure, and the evolution of his own golf swing and putting stroke. Mr. Player offers fond memories of the U.S. Opens he played at Oakmont, including holding the 36-hole lead in 1973, and takes us back to his Masters victories—especially the emotional reception he received at Augusta in 1978. Now approaching 90, his enthusiasm for life and the game remains as vibrant as ever. This episode is a heartfelt celebration of a remarkable man and the enduring friendship he’s shared with the show since being its very first guest.
Golf Podcast: next on the tee
I am proud and humbled to say that Next on the Tee has won 13 awards over the last 3 years at the w3 Awards, Communicator Awards, Signal Awards, and Davey Awards for Best Sports Podcast Episodes & Specials plus Best Host. If you enjoy listening to Golf's Greatest Legends, Top Players, & the Best Instructors in the game sharing their stories, Insights, & playing lessons, this truly is the podcast for you.
Check out the show's guest schedule, hear what my guests are saying about the show, and share your thoughts by going to the show's Website at, www.nextonthetee.net. Thank you for listening and making the show a part of your regular golf content.
Meet the Host
I have a passion for game that started when I was 12 years old playing golf in the evenings with my father. I took lessons from a gentleman named Ken Friend at Tides Golf Club in Seminole, Florida and I have loved the game ever since. I grew up idolizing Jack Nicklaus. The '75 & '86 Masters remain two of my favorite sports memories.
Augusta National is my favorite place on the planet. Attending The Masters tournament is one of the highlights of every year since 2001. I cherish walking those hallowed grounds. It gives me a feeling of wonder and excitement that has become a part of me and I never want it to leave.
I was born in Pittsburgh and the Steelers, Penguins, and Pirates are in my DNA. I also lived outside of Boston for several years and spending time at Fenway Park and the Boston Garden, infused my soul with the Red Sox and Celtics.
Tranquil late afternoon rounds of golf with my father and son some of my happiest moments. My annual golf trip with my buddies is always another highlight of the golf year. I also enjoy going to our local PGA Tour SuperStore and testing out new equipment with my son; it's one of our favorite things to do together.
You can follow me on Twitter and Instagram @ctmascaro and the show @nxtonthetee. You can interact with me on the show's Facebook page or through the Contact Us form on the website. If you have a question for one of my upcoming or previous guests, please let us know via social media and I'll gladly get that question answered for you.
I have been privileged to have great players like Hal Sutton, Mark Calcavecchia, John Cook, Olin Browne, Tim Simpson, Donnie Hammond, Chip Beck, Scott McCarron, Frank Nobilo, Ian Baker-Finch, Mark Wiebe, Suzy Whaley, Dottie Pepper, Jane Blalock, Tom Purtzer, John Mahaffey, Shaun Micheel, Rick Fehr, Dave Stockton, Dave Stockton Jr., Billy Mayfair, Jim Gallagher Jr., Nick O'Hern, plus several others become regular guests and friends. The Top Instructors in the game like Tom Patri, Rob Strano, Brian Jacobs, Jim McLean, Cindy Miller, Debbie O'Connell, Tim Cusick, John Hughes, Michael Breed, Kellie Stenzel, Michelle Holmes, Alison Curdt, Andy Traynor, and many many more join me each week to help you play your best golf.
If that all isn't enough to make you want to give the show a try, I don't want else is. I hope you'll listen and make the podcast a part of your regular golf content.