Remembering when Peter Thomson played Gary Player at Royal Melbourne

Gary Player led the tributes after the passing of Australian golf legend Peter Thomson passed away last week.

“Peter Thomson I would have to say probably has the best record. Five major championships, five opens and he won tournaments all over the world,” Player said.

“And he was one of the straightest hitters I’ve ever played against.”

Check out these great videos of when Thomson took on Player at Royal Melbourne in 1962 as part of Shell’s Wonderful World of Golf.

At this point, Thomson had already won four majors and Player has won three.

The Victor Harbor Times reported on the match heading to TV (right) in 1963.

Unfortunately, the second video finishes before the final hole is played but it looks like Thomson beat Player as he was five shots in front through 17.

Peter Thomson’s life will be commemorated at the MCG later today. Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews’ offer of a state funeral was politely declined by Thomson’s wife Mary.

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