Golf Legend Fred Couples Battles Back Pain at 2024 Masters
Read about Fred Couples’ valiant battle against back pain at the 2024 Masters Tournament, where the legendary golfer displayed resilience and short-game skills amidst physical struggles. Despite his age and health issues, Couples’ determination shines through on the fairways of Augusta National.
Golf Legend Fred Couples Battles Persistent Back Pain at the 2024 Masters Tournament
Augusta, Georgia – April 12, 2024 – Despite his back troubles, golfing icon Fred Couples took to the fairways of Augusta National with his signature smile, determined to compete in the prestigious Masters Tournament. The 1992 champion, now 64 years old, struggled through intense pain to complete the second round, ultimately missing the cut with scores of 80 and 76.
Couples acknowledged the challenge, admitting that there were several instances during the opening round where he should have withdrawn due to the severity of his back issues. However, the ever-competitive golfer wanted to support his playing partners, Adam Hadwin and amateur Stewart Hagestad, even as they outdrove him by considerable margins.
The legendary player’s perennial back problems have forced him to withdraw from his last two planned starts on the PGA TOUR Champions circuit. This week, Couples found it increasingly difficult to swing the club, particularly with irons, as any impact with the turf would send shockwaves of pain through his body.
“No, my back is shot,” Couples said. “The longer the club, I’m OK. I didn’t have any speed. I was driving it 260, but most of them were going straight. It was fun. It was really difficult.”
Despite the physical challenges, Couples’ short-game prowess allowed him to shoot a respectable 76 on Friday, outpacing the younger Hagestad by two strokes. Hadwin, meanwhile, carded a 73.
Reflecting on his struggles at the par-4 ninth hole, where Couples’ approach shot traveled only 80 yards in the air due to his limited swing capabilities, the former Masters champion acknowledged the embarrassment but took solace in his ability to salvage the hole through deft chipping and putting.
When asked about his future at the Masters, Couples remained optimistic, albeit with a caveat. “Well, I’ve got to get my back fixed,” he said. “I could play forever, but I can’t play like this.”
As the golfing world watched on, the resilient Couples once again demonstrated his unwavering spirit and love for the game, even as his body betrayed him on the hallowed grounds of Augusta National.
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