Jack Nicklaus criticises drinking habits of the players while playing on tournaments
The Golden Bear of the sport, Jack Nicklaus, is more in the headlines these days than probably any other sportsman as he continuously churns out statements, reminiscing his past and the norms of the game.
Speaking on yet another press conference, Nicklaus shed light on how the players behaved during his times.
He discussed their bibulous activities in the middle of the tournaments, something he never approved off.
“Don’t take this the wrong way, please,” Nicklaus said. “In those days, most of those guys were club pros. Their usual thing was, after a round, to come in and have a drink and socialize. They did that when they played tournaments”.
Nicklaus was present at the Honda Classic on PGA Tour last week.
The former world number one and record holder of 18-major titles, Nicklaus is one of the most sought after golfers at the moment and his timely advices have guided numerous players to stardom.
Nicklaus held an unblemished record of high-stature and character during his era, when he out rightly ruled the sport for more than a decade.
Honoured, respected and loved by his fans all over the world, Nicklaus never slipped once in his career which might have given the media gurus a chance to pick on him.
He added, “I always felt drinking did not do well with nerves. The guys today don’t do that. I never did that. Did I have a drink? Sure, here and there, but never while I was playing in tournaments. I always thought that was terrible for your nerves, and terrible for your touch”.
Nicklaus knows what he talks about. His suggestions helped several players cope with their mental turbulence in the past few years, guiding them to the top of the leaderboard.
Trevor Immelman admits that his Masters victory four years ago was a direct result of the suggestions he received from the top golfer himself.
Charl Schwartzel, the reigning Masters champion also shares similar views about the Golden Bear.
PGA champion Keegan Bradley is hoping to dine with Nicklaus to seek his advice about his first Masters bid this April.
Nicklaus’ discussion may point towards the nonchalant John Daly, the two-time major winner who still consumes alcohol in the middle of the tournaments.
He is only few of the remaining relics of the past who constantly disregard the ethics of the sport.
He has been penalised for his misdemeanour on the course on several occasions and has time and again, refused to follow the code of conduct of the sport.
In a latest incident, he decided to withdraw from the Australian Open after being penalised by the officials.
Daly does not have a regular playing status on either European or the PGA Tour and relies on sponsor's exemption to paly in tournaments.
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