Gary Player had one of the most celebrated golf careers in the sport’s history. The South African legend traveled across continents in his quest for victories, which helped him eclipse a total of 159 professional wins. But from his first title to his last, Player was ably supported by his wife, the late Vivienne Verwey. The former golfer has paid his respects on multiple occasions, which was visible again after his recent post commemorating her birthday.

Gary Player remembers his late wife on her birthday

The 87-year-old made a heartfelt post on his late wife’s birthday, with a message that said, “Happy birthday to my angel in heaven. This is you on our wedding day. I miss you more and more. We will see each other again, Viv. Until then I will keep making you proud. Gabs,” he wrote in the tweet.

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The legendary golfer also attached a picture of his late wife in her wedding gown. The lovable couple married each other on 19th January 1957, and stayed together until Verwey lost her battle against pancreatic cancer in 2021.

But the love story between the couple was well-known before its time.

A story of merry living by the Players couple

The duo first met each other when Player was fourteen years old. As he later claimed, it was love at first sight. However, even after confessing his love to Vivienne, he wasn’t open to the idea of marrying her initially.

According to the golfer’s principal, he wanted to make enough money to take care of his family before tying the knot. The moment finally arrived after Player’s first professional victory at the Ampol Tournament in Australia.

Thenceforth, the Players couple lived a herculean lifestyle. Due to his golf commitments around the world, the nine-time major championship winner would travel frequently, which significantly reduced his time with his family.

The troubles elevated after the couple had children, but the tiresome job of taking care of children and household chores was left to Mrs. Player. But she diligently did the task to avoid any hiccups in the golfer’s career, which ultimately left a lasting impression on golf’s record books.

With her gone, Player is left with fond memories and a time when they were together. What are your thoughts on Gary’s emotional, heartfelt message? Let us know in the comments down below.

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