The name Peter Senior carries weight in the world of golf. A man who defined resilience and longevity, Senior didn’t just compete against rising stars—he beat them, even in his 50s. Among those who fell victim to his brilliance? A young Bryson DeChambeau, who, even as an amateur, had already started making waves in the sport.
The setting was the 2015 Australian Masters, a tournament where Senior, at the age of 56, stunned the golfing world by lifting the trophy. Meanwhile, DeChambeau finished tied for second, watching in awe as the veteran displayed a masterclass in skill and experience.
Today, DeChambeau, now a major champion and one of golf’s most polarizing figures, looks back on that moment with admiration—and a bit of self-deprecating humor.
“Huntingdale was amazing. Peter Senior beat my butt, unfortunately. That old fart got me (smiling). But what a legend he is. He played some incredible golf. I finished second as an amateur. That was fun.”
The anecdote, shared in an interview with Golf By Tour Miss, reflects how Senior’s victory still resonates nearly a decade later. His win wasn’t just a testament to his own greatness, but a reminder of what golf once was—a sport defined by passion, grit, and an unwavering hunger for victory.
Has modern golf lost its edge?
Peter Senior’s triumph over younger competition back in 2015 wasn’t just a feel-good story—it highlighted a shift in golf’s competitive mentality. Where has that hunger gone?
While today’s crop of golfers is immensely talented, there’s a growing sense that the raw desire of past generations is fading, replaced by the financial allure of tours like LIV Golf. The landscape of professional golf has changed, and whether that’s for better or worse depends on who you ask.
The game’s legends played for glory. Today, many play for guaranteed paychecks. And the decisions of some of the brightest young stars to join LIV Golf seem to reinforce that money now trumps legacy.
Bryson’s resurgence and his focus on the Masters
While some question the modern game’s fire, Bryson DeChambeau remains as motivated as ever. The 30-year-old, known for his scientific approach, power game, and occasional controversy, has made it clear—this year is about winning Majors, with a special focus on Augusta National.
And while DeChambeau prepares for his biggest challenges ahead, he also found time to reflect on another memorable event—his past appearance at the Australian Open, where he shared a round with none other than Lee Westwood.
“Played actually with Lee Westwood the third round. I don’t think he liked me very much. Don’t clickbait that, by the way, I’m just sayin’.”
The comment, made with a laugh, shows that while DeChambeau is focused on his future, he hasn’t forgotten his past run-ins on the course.
“I love Lee Westwood; we have a good relationship now. But it was funny that day; maybe he was just frustrated or something.”
DeChambeau’s story is far from over. With renewed motivation and his eyes set on the sport’s biggest prizes, he’s on a mission to cement his place among golf’s greats. Whether he’ll succeed remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: he won’t stop swinging for history.