Pickleball Mishap Sidelines Golfer Bernhard Langer from The Masters

Bernhard Langer, a seasoned golfer, was set to participate in The Masters for the last time this year. Unfortunately, his plans were disrupted by an injury he sustained while playing pickleball.

At 66 years old, Langer, a two-time green jacket winner in 1985 and 1993, was looking forward to his 41st appearance at The Masters. However, a torn Achilles tendon from a game of pickleball forced him to withdraw from the upcoming tournament.

“I play all sorts of sports to stay fit and this was part of my fitness regime,” Langer told the Musings on Golf podcast.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - AUGUST 22: PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan speaks to the media prior to the TOUR Championship at East Lake Golf Club on August 22, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan talked to the press before the TOUR Championship at East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta, Georgia on August 22, 2023. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

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I was trying to avoid being hit by someone throwing something at me. I took a few steps back and swung my arm over my head. When I landed on the ground, I heard a loud pop, like a gunshot. Immediately, I knew that I had torn my Achilles tendon because I had seen it happen to other athletes before.

Pickleball has become increasingly popular in North America, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. Between 2018 and 2021, the number of USA Pickleball members almost doubled. A report from 2023 revealed that there were approximately 8.9 million players aged six and above in the United States.

The game can be played either in singles or doubles on a 20-foot-by-44-foot court, combining elements from tennis, badminton, and ping-pong.

Langer mentioned that he has been making excellent progress following his surgery and will be present at the annual champions dinner at Augusta National next month. He aims to make his comeback to golf at the Insperity Invitational in Houston, Texas, in early May.

The Masters, the first golf major of the calendar year, will take place between April 11 and 14 in Augusta, Georgia.

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Everything you need to know (and more!) about pickleball

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• Source:

CNN

CNN’s Issy Ronald contributed to reporting.

Editor's P/S:

Bernhard Langer's withdrawal from The Masters due to a pickleball injury is a reminder of the risks involved in any physical activity. While pickleball is often seen as a recreational game, it can still lead to serious injuries, especially for older individuals. Langer's experience highlights the importance of warming up properly and playing within one's limits.

The growing popularity of pickleball is a testament to its accessibility and appeal to people of all ages. However, it's important to approach the game with caution and be aware of the potential risks. By taking appropriate precautions, players can enjoy the benefits of pickleball without putting themselves in harm's way. disappointing to see Langer miss out on his final Masters appearance due to injury. However, his positive outlook and determination to return to the game are commendable. Langer has always been an inspiration to golfers worldwide, and his resilience in the face of adversity is further proof of his unwavering spirit. We wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing him back on the course soon.