Unlocking Longevity: The Secrets of 'Undereating' and Ice Baths by 88-Year-Old Phenom
Discover the remarkable journey of 88-year-old Gary Player who defies age with his unique regimen of undereating and invigorating ice baths. Witness his powerful tee drive at the 88th Masters that rivals athletes a fraction of his age, showcasing the true essence of longevity and vitality.
Gary Player, who is 88 years old, kicked off the 88th Masters tournament with an impressive tee drive that even younger players would envy. Despite his age, the South African golfer still maintains his reputation as "Mr. Fitness" from his successful playing days, displaying his energy and vitality alongside golf legends Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson as Honorary Starters at Augusta National.
After a two-and-a-half-hour delay because of bad weather, a large number of people came together to watch the all-star trio take the ceremonial opening shots of the tournament.
Player was the first to step up, jokingly commenting to his American counterparts, "Putting the ball on the tee isn't as easy as it looks, huh?" He then proceeded to hit a smooth drive right down the middle of the first fairway.
After celebrating with his signature leg-kick, the three-time Masters champion headed back to the Augusta National clubhouse. There, he shared the secrets of his enduring youth. 
Player toasts his tee shot with his trademark celebration.
Jamie Squire/Getty Images
"I love life, people, and my job. I am very happy," Player shared with reporters. He then shared about a visit he had with a gerontologist in India, who is an expert in studying aging and the elderly.
The gerontologist shared with him what he believes is the secret to living a long life. He gave Player a list of ten things to focus on, which Player diligently follows every single day.
Player explained that he takes an ice-cold bath every morning, but insisted that “the most important thing” for longer living is to “undereat.”
Woman checking time while eating banana at city
Woman checking time while eating banana at city
Maskot/Getty Images
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Player emphasized the significance of undereating, stating that it is only a quarter as crucial as going to the gym, which is supported by medical evidence.
Recent studies have shown that excessive training and undereating over an extended period in the pursuit of enhancing athletic abilities can result in Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S).
Medical experts warn that if left untreated, REDs can harm an athlete's metabolism, bone health (increasing the risk of fractures), immune system, cardiovascular health, menstrual cycle, mental health, and overall athletic performance.
Player, who made a record 52 appearances at Augusta National, played his last Masters in 2009 and so far, everything is going well for him.
Player was renowned for his endurance across a five-decade career that reaped 165 tournament wins and nine major championships.
Player drives from the tee at the 1965 US Open.
Player drives from the tee at the 1965 US Open.
Walter Iooss Jr./Sports Illustrated/Getty Images
He calls himself the "World's Most Traveled Athlete." In 2012, he told CNN that he had accumulated more than 15 million air miles while playing. He confidently stated on Thursday that no other person in history has traveled more miles than him.
Gary Player, who describes himself as the "World's Most Traveled Athlete" says he has racked up more than 15 million air miles in his career. Now aged 76, he was honorary starter at the Masters, in Augusta, April 2012.
Gary Player, known as the "World's Most Traveled Athlete," has accumulated over 15 million air miles throughout his career. At 76 years old, he had the honor of being the honorary starter at the Masters in Augusta in April 2012.
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On Thursday, he mentioned, "I'm really fit. I can still lift 300 pounds with my legs and run at max speed on the treadmill. I enjoy reading, laughing, and having love in my heart. That's incredibly important."
When asked for advice on staying in shape, 84-year-old Nicklaus, who holds the record for the most Masters wins with six titles, attributed his youthful energy to his five children, 24 grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.
Meanwhile Watson, a two-time green jacket winner, echoed some of Player’s advice.
“I think you surround yourself with people you love, and you eat responsibly,” the 74-year-old answered.
“You do things in life for other people, and you try to have fun, and like Gary said, you’ve got to laugh.”
Watson, Player and Nicklaus (left to right) drew huge crowds.
Watson, Player and Nicklaus (left to right) drew huge crowds.
Mike Blake/Reuters
Player, who received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from former President Donald Trump in 2021, hails the United States as the greatest country that God ever made. Despite being born and raised in Johannesburg, he reserves his highest praise for the US.
“If you’re here, you are so blessed, and you should kiss the ground every day,” Player told Masters reporters on the range.
Golf - The Masters - Augusta National Golf Club, Augusta, Georgia, U.S. - April 10, 2024 Bubba Watson of the U.S. with his daughter Dakota on the 6th hole during the par 3 contest REUTERS/Mike Blake
Bubba Watson from the U.S. was seen with his daughter Dakota on the 6th hole during the par 3 contest at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia, U.S. on April 10, 2024. The picture was captured by Mike Blake from Reuters.
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Let's take a moment to acknowledge the positive impact that this country has had on the world, not just for our own benefit. It's important for America to focus on doing more for its own people.
During his press conference, Player shared about a special meeting he had with President Dwight D. Eisenhower, whom he considers one of his heroes, back in 1957 when he participated in his first Masters tournament.
Player expressed his admiration for a man who strongly believed in freedom and made significant contributions to the country.
Later, he emphasized the privilege and honor of being in the United States, referring to it as the greatest country that God ever made. He also expressed his gratitude for being a part of the tournament.
Editor's P/S:
Gary Player's impressive tee drive at the Masters tournament, despite his advanced age, is a testament to his unwavering dedication to fitness and well-being. His "Mr. Fitness" reputation is well-deserved, as he continues to exhibit remarkable energy and vitality. Player's emphasis on undereating and his daily routine of an ice-cold bath underscore his commitment to healthy living.
Beyond his physical fitness, Player's positive outlook on life, his love for people, and his gratitude for the United States are equally inspiring. His belief in the importance of surrounding oneself with loved ones, doing things for others, and having fun resonates deeply. Player's unwavering patriotism and his admiration for iconic figures like President Dwight D. Eisenhower add to his legacy as a well-rounded and admired individual.
