Reed Hughes, a 71-year-old pro, embarked on an interesting journey. He debuted at the American Tour 40 years ago and now, after 17 years, he teed off at the Sanderson Farms Championship. His last PGA tour event was the Zurich Classic in 2007. The Mississippi appearance marks his ninth one on the Tour. Hughes booked his ticket to the Country Club of Jackson by winning the Gulf States E-Z-GO Section Championship in September 2023 after he shot 71-68.

After he won the Championship last year, he could not believe it; “I didn’t have the yips all day like I normally do. I hit the ball really well. I missed like two greens all day. It’s never over until it’s over.” On the first day in Mississippi, Hughes shot 76, and when you are teeing off at 71, you are bound to feel slower compared to other young pros in the field, and this was just the case with Hughes.

He found the entire experience “unbelievable,” and added, “I can’t believe I’m doing it. It’s hard for me because I’m used to riding in a cart and playing in about three hours. My round would have ended at home about No. 9, so that would have been a good day.”

But does this unbelievable experience make him the oldest player to ever tee off in a pro event? Or has there been anyone older than him who has graced the greens professionally? Well, there has been, and he was 73 years old.

What helped Gary Player at 73 to tee off strongly?

Back in 2009, Gary Player announced his retirement from professional golf. At 73, Player participated in his last Masters marking his record 52nd appearance. He made his debut at Augusta when he was 21. He then won two Green Jackets in 1974 and 1978.

Gary Player is a nine-time major winner and one of the few golf legends. But he was still enthusiastic about his last major, crediting his physical fitness for his longevity in the sport. Speaking to the media, Player said, “It is encouraging when you have exercised as hard as I have and watched my diet pretty well that I’m able to play 52 Masters. It’s a very encouraging thought.” The legendary South African golfer ended his career with a 2nd round exit at the Masters in 2009.

During his last appearance at Augusta, Player also reflected on how his 2008 Masters was, and he said, “I stood on the tee last year when I was waiting to play and there was a bit of a hold-up, and I thought, damn it all, most of my friends at 72 are dead and I’m playing at the Masters? Most guys at my age, 73, have not seen their knees, never mind their private parts, for seven years. There’s a lot of feeling going on. At least I can see where I am.”

While Gary Player may have hung up his boots in 2009, all eyes are set on Reed Hughes and his journey to the ongoing Tour event. We are sure Hughes will be giving it his best. It will surely be an interesting affair. How do you think Reed Hughes will perform? And whom are you supporting for the Sanderson Farms Championship that has an unwritten color-coded rule this year?