Professional golfer Bernhard Langer, one of his sport’s most respected ambassadors, will tee off in the Masters Tournament this Thursday. This will be his 41st trip to the storied event. The 66-year-old German golfer, who made his debut in 1982, has become a symbol of excellence in the sport, showcasing an impressive career that includes two Masters victories and a significant role in popularizing golf in Germany. His first Green Jacket arrived in 1985, when he famously came back from a four-shot deficit on the final day. His own story is one that begins with a great deal of humility. Today, as a member of the World Golf Hall of Fame, he stands proudly among such company.
Langer’s initial triumph in the Masters shaped his career. He birdied four of the final seven holes to complete the comeback victory. With that remarkable performance, he beat out storied challengers Curtis Strange, Seve Ballesteros, and Raymond Floyd by two strokes. After eight years in the political wilderness, he staged an extraordinary comeback. Most people remember him taking his second Green Jacket in 1993 with an epic eagle on the 13th hole. This victory was further accented by a dominating four-stroke margin of victory over Chip Beck, cementing Langer’s place in the tournament’s history.
A Journey Rooted in Humility
Langer was born in a tiny German village of only 800 people. His path to achievement was not easy, riddled with trauma and pain. He reflected on his formative years and understood that, growing up in Germany, golf just wasn’t a big sport. It certainly wasn’t a popular sport during his developmental years.
“Golf was nothing in Germany. I had no idea when I turned pro what I was going to be facing. I had no role model. I had no one to compare myself with. I was just the one starting something that nobody has ever done before in Germany.” – Bernhard Langer
Langer’s history with the Masters started long before he found success on the course. He recalls only getting to watch TV once he was twelve years old. This somewhat stunted the childhood experience he could have had of the tournament.
“I don’t recall the exact day or year when I heard about the Masters Tournament, but it was certainly not easy.” – Bernhard Langer
Reflecting on His Final Appearance
In what will probably be his last Masters, an emotional Langer says he’s savoring this moment. A year ago, a torn Achilles tendon dashed his farewell plans. This year’s tournament is more special than ever for him.
He admits he expects the feels to slam him most on that last walk up the 18th fairway.
“If it doesn’t hit me earlier on, it will definitely hit me on 18, I know that.” – Bernhard Langer
He hopes to keep a cool head throughout the tournament, but acknowledges it might be difficult to keep his emotions in check.
“Hopefully, I can control myself until the 18th, but there’s no guarantees.” – Bernhard Langer
Legacy and Impact
As I mentioned earlier, Langer’s impact goes beyond his accomplishments. He’s inspired a generation of golfers both in Germany and all over the world. His achievements have helped elevate the status of golf within his home country, paving the way for future generations to pursue the sport professionally. Before his final Masters start, Langer looks back at his amazing run. His trajectory has impacted not just his life, but the very culture of golf in Germany.
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