Gary Player Reminisces Over ‘Precious Memories’ of Late Wife Months After Beginning His New Relationship

Some people age like photographs—fading slowly into the past. Gary Player never signed up for that. Even at 89, there’s a vitality about him that seems to defy time, as if he’s still walking the fairways of Augusta with the sun at his back and one more major to chase. But behind that trademark smile and steely discipline lies a private journey far more profound than any tournament he’s ever played.

Loss doesn’t care for legacies. It doesn’t ask for permission before it arrives, and it certainly doesn’t make exceptions for icons. When it comes, it rewrites routines, reshapes silences, and forces even the strongest among us to pause and reckon. And yet, it’s what happens after that pause that defines a life. In what ways does a legend deal with loss and discover a new purpose?

In sports, a life partner often serves as an athlete’s rock, providing unwavering support during the highs and lows of competition. Vivienne was that constant presence for Gary Player, the legendary South African golfer and one of just five men to complete a career Grand Slam. They were married for 64 years, and their relationship served as a testament to their unwavering love and mutual support. 

A huge hole was left in Player’s life when Vivienne passed away in 2021 following a fight with pancreatic cancer. However, despite this tragedy, Player’s story demonstrates resilience and the ability of people to find new meaning. Let’s take a look at what this is!

A grandfather’s tribute: Remembering Vivienne through family moments

On Instagram, Gary Player just shared a moving picture of his great-granddaughter, Mia Marie, getting her first bath. The picture featured a touching text and encompassed four generations: the mother, grandmother, great-grandfather, and the family dog, Honey. The caption read as, “My great granddaughter, Mia Marie, and her very first bath. A great grandfather, grandmother, mother and dog Honey all together watching. I think she could become an Olympic swimmer! Her great grandmother, Vivienne, not only excelled at golf but also swimming, particularly the backstroke. Precious memories… GP.” 

In addition to celebrating a new life, this heartfelt remembrance of Vivienne highlights the lasting influence she had on their family. A man who is incredibly rooted in his family’s history is revealed through Player’s contemplation about Vivienne’s swimming ability and his lighthearted forecast that Mia Marie will compete in the Olympics.

The message struck a chord with many people, showing how comfort and continuity may be found in cherished memories. Player’s public sharing of such private family memories demonstrates his conviction in the value of family and the enduring impact of departed loved ones. While memories of Vivienne continue to live on, Gary Player has also found a surprising new motivation to embrace the future. Let’s see what it is!

Embracing life anew: Gary Player’s motivation to reach 100

Gary Player is still as enthusiastic about life as ever at the age of 89. During the 2025 Masters Tournament, he disclosed a startling source of motivation in an open interview: a new, younger girlfriend. “I’ve got a young girlfriend — I’ve changed my life. How about that, at 90, finding a girlfriend?”  he asked reporters. The player’s candor regarding his new relationship represents a more general outlook on aging and resiliency. “One of the spouses is going to die, and it’s not the end of life,” he said, underscoring the significance of embracing life after loss. “So many people that does happen and they get so disheartened that they don’t think they should continue life,” he further added. 

His dedication to enjoying life to the fullest goes beyond interpersonal connections. The player talked about adopting 11 longevity-focused lifestyle routines after speaking with an Indian gerontologist. His proactive dedication to health and well-being was highlighted when he said, “So I might drop dead tomorrow, but I’m giving it a hell of a try,”

The story of Gary Player’s transition from grief to acceptance of a fresh start is a powerful example of perseverance. His capacity to respect the past while actively interacting with the present provides insightful guidance on how to deal with loss and rediscover meaning in later stages of life.