South African · Johannesburg, South Africa · Born 1 November 1935The Black Knight — one of only five players to complete the career Grand Slam.
Gary Player was born in Johannesburg, South Africa in 1935. He is one of only five players to complete the career Grand Slam (all four major championships). He won nine majors and 163 professional tour victories worldwide — more than any golfer in history when international tours are included. He was the most physically fit professional golfer of his era — his exercise and nutrition regime was decades ahead of the sport. He was the first international player to dominate on the American PGA Tour. He was a South African competing during the apartheid era — a position he navigated with significant controversy and criticism throughout his career.
Completing the Career Grand Slam and global golf ambassador
How They Played
Fitness-focused power player with strong short game
Lasting Impact
One of golf's Big Three alongside Palmer and Nicklaus
Career Honours
- Masters 3x
- US Open 1x
- The Open 3x
- PGA Championship 2x
South African Athletes