Golf Legend Gary Player, 89, Reveals 12 Keys to Reaching 100

Golfing icon Gary Player, approaching his 90th birthday on November 1, shared a list of 12 principles he believes are essential for longevity, emphasizing the importance of diet and lifestyle.

The nine-time major champion, known for his exceptional fitness, recently revealed a laminated card given to him by a gerontologist outlining the keys to a long life: “Under eat. Exercise. Read. Prayer/meditate. Love. Ice bath. Gratitude. Sleep. Laugh a lot. Keep busy. Friends. Do things you don’t want to do.” Player stressed that the most crucial element, according to experts, is moderation in eating. “All the gerontologists varied to a degree, but basically what they all agreed on to live a long time is under eat,” he said. “Everybody’s eating too much. Obesity, which is killing them.”

Player expressed concern that modern food production practices could hinder his goal of reaching 100 years old, stating, “[Getting a disease] can happen because the food is all sprayed, you know, and it’s the things that prevent you from becoming a hundred.” This comes as health officials continue to study the long-term effects of pesticides and food additives. He previously delivered a strong statement against fast food earlier this year at the Masters Tournament, saying, “You don’t reach 90 as I do if you eat a bunch of crap.”

The South African golfer, who recently celebrated finding love again at 89, views longevity as a gift and an opportunity to continue enjoying life. His continued vitality and outspokenness on health and wellness have made him a prominent advocate for a proactive approach to aging, influencing a generation of golfers to prioritize physical fitness. Player indicated he intends to continue pursuing his goal, stating, “My ambition is to reach 100.”

Player is expected to continue his active lifestyle and remain a visible figure in the golfing world, potentially participating in future Masters Tournaments as an honorary starter.