Bidding Farewell: Bernhard Langer Prepares for His Swan Song at the US Masters
Golf icon Bernhard Langer has undergone a successful treatment.
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Golf legend Bernhard Langer, hailing from Germany, is gearing up for his 41st and last appearance at the US Masters. It would be a remarkable feat if he makes the cut and contends over the weekend, but that's not Langer's primary objective.
With a crack in his voice and emotions evident in his eyes, Langer, a two-time champion, was visibly moved during the press conference prior to the tournament. "This event is already emotional for me," Langer said, his voice shaking: "It'll be a bittersweet experience."
Reflecting on his 40 prior starts on the legendary Magnolia Lane, his two victories (1985 and 1993), setbacks, and golfing life, Langer exclaimed, "It's been an incredible journey. I've been blessed with good health, talent, and the willingness to make sacrifices. Without those, I wouldn't be here."
As he approaches the end of his illustrious career, Langer noted that the 18th hole would likely bring on overwhelming emotions. "Hopefully, I can keep it together until then, but there are no guarantees," Langer, who hails from a Bavarian village of 800 people, shared: "Golf meant nothing in Germany when I started, but it's time to say farewell now."
Saying Goodbye on the Greens
While Langer had initially wanted to bow out last year, a torn Achilles tendon delayed his decision. Now, with his departure imminent, Langer has prepared for a touching farewell. Having celebrated 115 tournament victories globally, his loved ones will be present for this significant event.
His wife Vikki Carol, their four children Jackie, Stefan, Christina, and Jason, their four grandchildren, his brother Erwin, and many friends from both Germany and the USA will witness Langer's final Masters performance.
Recalling his usual competitive focus during tournaments, Langer admitted that this time would be different due to the presence of his family on the course. However, it seems challenging for the German veteran to compete beyond two days. With age and physical limitations, it's a minor miracle that Langer has an opportunity to play this year.
Though Langer holds the record for the oldest participant to qualify for the second half, that feat was five years ago. As the course grows longer and Langer's drive shortens, the competition becomes more intense.
"Deep down, I hope for a miracle," Langer admitted, "but realizing the challenge, I might end my Masters career on Friday on the 18th hole. The experience and emotions will be unforgettable, whether I'm in contention or not."
Source: ntv.de, tno/sid
Enrichment Data:
Bernhard Langer's Final US Masters Record:
- Appearances: 41
- Wins: 2 (1985 and 1993)
- Top-10 Finishes: 7
- Cuts Made: 27
- Best Round: 6-under 66 (second round in 1999)
- Recent Performance: Finished under par as recently as 2020 (T29 at 3-under).
Outcome for His 41st and Final Tournament:
- Final Round: Bernhard Langer narrowly missed the cut in his 41st Masters, finishing at three over par. This marked his last competitive outing at the Masters.
- Reflection: After missing the cut, Langer planned to spend time with his family and participate in a documentary about his life. He acknowledged that while he could still compete on shorter courses, Augusta National had become too long for him to remain competitive[3][4][5].
- Despite his age, it is a minor miracle that golf legend Bernhard Langer, a two-time US Masters champion, has the opportunity to play this year's tournament, as he approaches the end of his illustrious career.
- At the upcoming US Masters, Langer, the oldest participant to qualify for the second half, is aiming for a miracle, but the competition becomes more intense as the course grows longer and his drive shortens with age.
- Langer's loved ones, including his wife Vikki Carol, their four children, grandchildren, brother Erwin, and friends from both Germany and the USA, will be present to witness his touching farewell at the US Masters, his final Masters performance after 41 appearances and two victories (in 1985 and 1993).
