Former football star Bale shines on PGA Tour debut at Pebble Beach (video)
Former football star Gareth Bale stunned the sports world yesterday with a jaw-dropping shot Tiger Woods would have been proud of as he eased into his new life as a golfer.
The 33 year old made a strong start in his PGA Tour debut at the Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Teaming up with professional golfer Joseph Bramlett, the duo dominated the Spyglass Hill course, finishing the first round with a seven-under-par 65.
Bale, who has a two handicap and announced his retirement from football shortly after leading Wales in last year’s World Cup finals, showed his skills on the green with a spectacular recovery shot off a path to save par on the second hole. The jaw-dropping moment was a highlight of his and his partner’s first round.
The former Real Madrid, Tottenham, and Southampton midfielder said….
“It was a great shot. I tried to play it into the bank and hope for the best, as all amateur golfers would.”
The Pebble Beach Pro-Am is filled with a star-studded lineup of amateur players, including actor Bill Murray, Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, actor Jason Bateman, rapper Mackelmore, and of course, Bale. The competition also boasts top professional golfers such as England’s US Open champion Matt Fitzpatrick and former US Open winner Justin Rose.
The five-time Champions League winner admitted to feeling nervous on the first tee, a feeling that he says is shared among all amateurs. However, he quickly settled into the game and even hit one of his best shots down the first fairway.
“I think every amateur will tell you that. Even if we are used to playing in front of 80,000 or more on live TV it’s a completely different sport.
“It’s a good experience but luckily I hit one of my best shots down the first fairway.”
The competition continues over three courses, with the top 25 pro-am pairings advancing to the final round on the Pebble Beach Links Course.
