German golfing legend Bernhard Langer tore his Achilles tendon during a training exercise last Thursday, putting into question his planned final appearance at The Masters in April.
The 66-year-old underwent surgery on Friday to repair the injury but faces an indefinite period of recovery and rehabilitation.
Summary
- Langer tore his Achilles tendon during a training exercise on Thursday
- He was scheduled to have surgery on Friday to repair the injury
- The injury will cause him to miss competitive golf for an undetermined amount of time
- Langer had planned for this year’s Masters Tournament in April to be his last
- At 66 years old, it’s unclear if Langer will actually be able to play in the Masters again
Langer has made no secret of his intention for this year’s tournament at Augusta National to be his last.
“It’s going to be very emotional, especially Augusta, because it’s been a big part of my life,” Langer told reporters last week. “I love the tournament. I love the golf course. I love what they do for the game of golf. It’s going to be a tough farewell for me walking up the 18th the last time in competitive circumstances.”
An email sent to media members today explains that Bernhard Langer tore his Achilles.
Recently he said this year would be his final time playing in the Masters.
The Masters is 66 days away. pic.twitter.com/7AurWm1o6s
— Chantel McCabe (@chantel_mccabe) February 2, 2024
A two-time Masters champion, Langer has competed at Augusta an incredible 40 times dating back to his debut in 1982. But with the grueling hilly terrain, it seems unlikely even for this age-defying athlete to make a full recovery in time for the April event.
Langer has enjoyed a long and decorated career, dominating the PGA Tour Champions circuit in recent years.
Last season he claimed his 46th senior tour win to break Hale Irwin’s all-time record, and added a fifth PNC Championship alongside his son Jason in December.
Just last month he finished T-22 at the season-opening Mitsubishi Electric Championship in Hawaii.
For many, it would mark a devastating blow for such a freak injury to end a legendary career. But Langer appears determined to return to competition as soon as he can.
“Throughout my career, faith and family have been my bedrocks, providing me strength and guiding me through difficult times,” he said. “I will lean on both as I work towards a return to competition.”
At 46 wins and counting, Langer sits far above his rivals on the career money list with over $32 million in earnings.
His longevity and consistency well into his sixties continues to defy belief. But this recovery from a torn Achilles at 66 years of age shapes as his biggest test yet.
All golf fans will surely be willing Langer on to overcome the odds once more. Yet if we have unfortunately seen the last of him at Augusta National, his extraordinary Masters record and iconic status in the game will forever be cemented.
