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Gary Player celebrated his 90th birthday in grand fashion at Sun City, surrounded by family, friends, sports legends, and business leaders from around the world. The golf icon marked the milestone alongside the 36-hole Gary & Vivienne Player Invitational, played across the Gary Player Country Club and the Lost City Golf Club in North West, South Africa.The event was hosted by the Gary & Vivienne Player Foundation to support the Blair Atholl Pre-Primary School, a cause that holds special meaning for Player and his late wife, Vivienne.After the celebrations, Player shared a heartfelt message on Instagram on Monday, October 3, thanking everyone who has been part of his journey. He wrote:“It’s hard to find words for what last night meant. To celebrate 90 years of life at Sun City’s iconic Super Bowl - among friends, family, and so many who have shared this incredible journey - is deeply humbling. I’m grateful beyond measure for every person who has been part of this story. GP” View this post on Instagram Instagram PostPlayer’s achievements and lifelong commitment to giving back drew praise from many sports figures. Springbok rugby legend Bryan Habana called him an inspiration who continues to make a difference beyond golf.“Looking at Gary Player and what he’s achieved in all spheres of life, whether it be professional sport, philanthropy, or the love he has for South Africa, what stands out most is his undying desire to give back,” Habana said.Former rugby star Jaco Kriel shared similar thoughts, calling Player’s influence extraordinary.“He’s not just a great golfer, but to leave a legacy like he’s doing at the moment is amazing. I think that’s any sportsman’s dream, to leave a legacy like that and still live his legacy and make such a difference.”The two-day Gary & Vivienne Player Invitational concluded on Sunday, November 2, with the four-ball team of Sunshine Tour golfer Luke Brown, Brian McFadden, Darren Roos and Surinder Arora emerging as winners.Gary Player shares his dream round with golf and world legendsGary Player recently opened up about his ultimate fantasy lineup, revealing a rather unconventional “dream sixsome” that blends world leaders, humanitarians, and a U.S. president. His picks, which he called his “around the world” team, include Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Mother Teresa, Donald Trump, former Singapore Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, and evangelist Billy Graham, as per The Palm Beach Post.Player also shared his ideal golf groups from both past and present. For his all-time living foursome, he chose Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, Lee Trevino, and current World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler. His dream lineup of late golf legends includes Ben Hogan, Arnold Palmer, Sam Snead, and Byron Nelson.Player has already played a round with one of his world leader picks, U.S. President Donald Trump. Speaking about the experience, Trump said,“I played with Gary Player. You know Gary’s 90 and he shot 70 with me the last time we played! That’s pretty amazing from 6800 yards.” (via Golf Digest)Since turning professional in 1953, the South African legend has built one of the most successful careers in golf history. He has won more than 160 tournaments around the world, the most by any golfer. His record includes 46 titles across the PGA Tour and PGA Tour Champions, along with nine major championships. Player remains the only golfer to have completed the career Grand Slam on both tours.
