Gary Player and fitness go hand in hand. Even at the age of 89. But what is too much flexing? Ahead of the 2024 PNC Championship, where he teed off with his younger son, Player was spotted spending time with his fans. That was when he was asked about the gym. Boasting his fitness even at this age, he replied, “I’ll show you something nearly 90s,” the golfer remarked, pointing to his stomach. Well, that statement didn’t surprise fans, but it was what he did.

The U.S. Open winner struck his stomach hard, showcasing how tight it remained despite his age. He likely expected praise for the display, but the reaction was far from what he anticipated. His attempt to flex went wrong, drawing criticism instead. While some fans were amused, others found his behavior off-putting, with one commenting, “Unlikable human.”

But Tiger Woods recently rescued him, with his words of appreciation. Tiger Woods and Charlie Woods lost the PNC Championship to the Langers, and when asked about Bernhard Langer’s fitness and gameplay, he shared the example of Gary Player.

“Well, it’s a commitment to a lifestyle. You look at what Gary has done over the years. He’s still out here competing at 89 years old, and look at what Bernie has done over the years. That consistency to a healthy lifestyle, training, just that ability to focus, and commitment to fitness,” he said.

Bernhard Langer stays fit with a combination of exercises, stretching, and a focus on maintaining flexibility, even at 67. And well, it is needless to say what Gary Player does. So much hard work and discipline are indeed commendable.

“I mean, most of the golf community, they are willing to embrace fitness. Gary and Bernie were at the forefront of it, and look how much they can enjoy it on the back end,” added Woods.

But the question is, will this save Gary Player the reputation he already has? Although he managed to win the hearts of the fans with his eagle at the PNC Championship, there have been several allegations against him. One of them was a rather harsh one, too.

Accusations of cheating on Gary Player

During the 1974 British Open, Gary Player was on the 18th hole with a comfortable lead when his ball went past the green and landed near a clubhouse wall, in an area that seemed to be a mix of earth and sand. Despite the challenging lie, he was not allowed a free drop. In response, he was forced to play the shot left-handed, flipping his putter over and using the back of it to chip the ball onto the green.

Before the shot, he was seen brushing his club back. This helped him to take sand with it and improve his lies, which is not allowed. When the video went viral all over the internet, the golf community tagged as a ‘cheater’ him. Well, this was not all. Later, at a skins game in Arizona in 1983, Tom Watson accused him of cheating by moving a leaf from behind his ball.

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