PERSONAL
Dubbed the "Black Knight," "Mr. Fitness" and the "International Ambassador of Golf.".
A renowned golf course architect with more than 200 design projects located throughout the world. Designer of the course at the TPC Jasna Polana near Princeton, N.J., and The Links at Fancourt in South Africa—the site of the 2003 Presidents Cup.
Operates Black Knight International, which includes Gary Player Academy, Gary Player Equipment and Gary Player Enterprises—aspects of which include licensing, publishing, videos, apparel, golf equipment and memorabilia.
Gary Player Stud Farm has received worldwide acclaim for breeding top horses, including 1994 English Derby entry Broadway Flyer.
Operates The Player Foundation, with its primary objective to promote education for underprivileged children. The Foundation built the Blair Atholl Schools in Johannesburg, South Africa, which has educational facilities for more than 500 students from kindergarten through grade eight and also supports other educational projects throughout the world.
Says his biggest thrill in golf is being the third player in history after Gene Sarazen and Ben Hogan to win all four Grand Slam events.
Member of the Laureus World Sports Academy.
Has traveled more miles than any athlete in history—more than 15 million and counting.
At one point in his career, traveled with his six children and more than 30 pieces of luggage that sometimes took as many as three taxis to transport.
Among his heroes are Winston Churchill, Mother Teresa, Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi.
Among his favorite golf courses are The Links at Fancourt in his native South Africa, Cypress Point, Carnoustie and the TPC Jasna Polana.
One of his superstitions or lucky charms is wearing black.
Favorite athletes are Michael Jordan and Pele.
Serves as the Global Ambassador to Shell's Wonderful World of Golf series.
Website is garyplayer.com.
