Trevor Immelman followed in the footsteps of Gary Player yesterday when he became the second South African golfer to put on the green jacket at Augusta.
Finishing on eight under par to win by three shots, the Nike golfer revealed that Player took a significant role in inspiring the 2006 PGA Tour Rookie of the Year to his first Major victory.
Immelman told reporters that Player had given his compatriot some words of encouragement with a telephone message on the night before the last day''s play, helping him to focus on carding a good score for the crucial final round.
"He told me that he believed in me and I need to believe in myself," the 28-year-old said.
"I took that all to heart and I am obviously thankful for the message and I am sure he is proud of me."
Regarded as one the greatest golfers of all time, Player won three Masters titles as part of his haul of nine Major championship victories. His last win at Augusta came in 1978.
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