Gary Player, a longtime Augusta National figure and three-time Masters champion, says he cannot play a round with his three grandsons at Augusta National, despite his decades-long association with the club.

Player describes heartbreak and disappointment, noting that other major venues have allowed similar guest arrangements.

The story frames the denial as part of ongoing tension between enduring Augusta-era figures and current management, highlighting the broader impact on personal connections to the course.

The interview appears ahead of The Masters, with related coverage from Golf Monthly and GolfMagic providing context.

Player expresses sadness over the denial and singles out current management, while fans react strongly on social media.

In a fiery Fox Sports interview, Player criticizes the club’s current leadership despite his status as ambassador and former honorary starter.

Player stresses that his views come from age and experience and that he respects differing opinions even as he laments the situation.

He publicly discussed the incident with Golf Monthly, describing it as a sadness he must accept due to the current management at Augusta National.

The excerpt provides no further procedural details, official statements from Augusta National, or additional witnesses.

There is ambiguity about whether Player will remain an honorary starter for the 2026 Masters if tensions persist.

Wayne Player later said he apologized to Lee Elder, who was honored at the ceremony and passed away in 2021.

Overall fan sentiment tends to defend Augusta National’s standards and view the denial as protecting the club’s image and traditions rather than a personal slight to Player.