The Masters: My One Wish for Today

My one wish for today’s round is that Tom Watson somehow invokes “Masters Magic” and plays well enough to make the cut so that he can say his farewell on Sunday.

I have to admit that I am excited as anyone to be watching the young guys like Jordan Spieth and all the other great competitors tee it up at The Masters this week, but the fact that Tom Watson will be coming up the 18th hole for the last time as a competitor hurts. I’ve already had to deal with him standing on Swilcan Bridge for the final time. It’s a reminder of how long I have been in love with this wonderful game as I watch my heroes retire.

I came along when Arnold Palmer and his army were charging down the fairways of Augusta National and I had to watch him wave good bye at his last Masters. Now he can’t even hit the ceremonial first drive. It is a reminder of the wonderful times and great memories accumulated over the years.

Initially I was not a fan of Tom Watson. In his early years he had a tendency to choke and then he matured and started to interfere with my idol, Jack Nicklaus, building his legacy. As time went on and he figured out how to get it done on Sunday my respect for him grew, but I never really forgave him for stopping The Golden Bear from winning twenty or more majors.

The fact that he has been able to play competitively for as long as he has is a tribute to him and his golf swing. The fact that he shot +2 yesterday and beat Bubba Watson and Adam Scott by 2 shots in spite of the fact that, as he put it, “I just don’t have the tools in the toolbox anymore.”

After having watched him play for so many years and know how competitive he is, I know one thing for a fact and that is Tom Watson wants to make that final walk and wave on Sunday and not Friday. I really hope he pulls it off and goes out in a fashion he so richly deserves as the winner of 8 majors including 2 Masters and a career grand slam.

My perfect Sunday would be to see Tom Watson coming up the 18th to a standing ovation and Jordan Spieth donning the green jacket for the second straight time. If I was lucky enough to get that wish I would definitely have a hang-over on Monday!

I have gotten to see Palmer, Nicklaus, Watson, and Tiger at the peak of their careers. I hope I am fortunate enough to get to see Spieth, McIlroy, Fowler, and crew, reach the peak of their careers. Golf is in a really good place now.

Cover Photo via Flickr