The story heading into this year's Masters was the battle between golf’s biggest mainstream stars – Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy. Coming out of golf’s most renowned tournament, however, the spotlight is strictly on one person, arguably the most intriguing and unique top-tier golfer in the sport today – Bubba Watson.
After a historic (history was literally made) final round on Sunday, the fight for a green jacket ultimately came down to a playoff when Watson and Louis Oosthuizen both wound up tied for the lead at 10-under.
Eventually, after neither golfer could outduel the other on the 18th, the whole contest was decided on Watson’s fantastic recovery shot from the trees at the 10. Once that curled shot landed on the green and Oosthuizen missed his par putt, it only took Watson two putts to win his first major title.
The magnitude of the moment and the seeping realization that he was golf’s newest and brightest star caused Watson to break down almost immediately. He was quickly comforted by his mother and an assortment of other friends who gathered around to celebrate with him.
Meanwhile, the two favorites heading into this year’s Masters -- Woods and McIlroy -- struggled throughout the entire tournament. A mere two weeks after winning his first PGA Tour event in over two years, Woods ended up with his worst Masters showing ever – 5-over. McIltroy, who was supposed to be a quest for redemption this time around didn’t fare any better. When it was all said and done, the youngster also finished at 5-over par – tying Woods for 40th place.
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Whenever someone besides Tiger, Phil and Rory wins we say that he'll be golf's newest big star. It could actually be true with Bubba. His approach to the game is unique, his style is fun to watch and he's a cool personality.
I fully expect to see pink clubs on the course next week.