Masters 2019 EXCLUSIVE: Jose Maria Olazabal opens up ahead of historic 30th Augusta visit
JOSE MARIA OLAZABAL is a two-time Masters champion and is set to tee it up at Augusta for the 30th time this week, yet he still remembers exactly how he felt the first time he took to the course, paired with none other than Arnold Palmer.
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There aren't many better European golfers to have graced the course at Augusta over the years than Jose Maria Olazabal.
The Spaniard reined supreme in the 1990's at The Masters, winning both his titles in spectacular fashion.
In total, Olazabal has finished inside the top-10 at Augusta on eight different occasions, his last coming in 2006 when he carded a brilliant final round of 66.
At 53 years old, he is no longer one of the favourites at golf's most prestigious tournament, but he still remains a fan favourite around Augusta.
Crowds still chant his name as he makes his way around the course and will forever go down in history as one of the greatest golfers to play at Augusta.
There is always an extra buzz around The Masters that no other major can match.
It is the first major of the year, the pristine green grass and of course the special green jackets handed to the winner.
And Olazabal believes the special nostalgia attached to Augusta due to it being the only major to be played at the same course ever year is what makes it stand out among the others.
"I will never forget the first time I came here to play Augusta," he said.
"It was in 1985 while I was still an amateur. The first time I played here competitively I was paired with Arnold Palmer and that was really special and something I will always remember.
"I vividly recall that neither of us had a great day.
"We shot something like 79, 80, or 81, but I was really impressed with the reaction of the crowds.
"Every time we reached a green, the crowd was standing up and giving a huge ovation to Arnold Palmer.
"I really think that is what impressed me the most.
"I think the Masters is the most prestigious tournament in all of golf.
"It’s true that for us Europeans, The Open has a very special place in our hearts because in a way, it’s our Major, and there is a lot of history behind it, but in my opinion the Masters is unique.
"From the traditions and the way they do things here to being the only Major to be played at the same course every year, we can all relate to the special moments that have happened here and the history of this course.
"Once you’re walking on this course you can step on any tee box, fairway or green, and think to yourself, 'Wow, Jack Nicklaus hit a ball from this very spot!'
"Any time I thought that, my next thought was always to try to emulate him.
"It’s very special, it’s unique, and it’s the Masters.
"That’s why any player that is somebody, or wants to be somebody, in the game of golf loves to be a part of it."
Rolex Testimonee José María Olazábal was speaking in Augusta ahead of the Masters Tournament 2019 where Rolex is an International Partner.