Augusta Diary: Nick Faldo fumes at Chef Bubba Watson
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It was the big mystery ahead of the start of proceedings – and 2012 champ Bubba Watson's serving at the Champions Dinner failed to meet with universal acclaim.
After all the speculation, the 34-year-old's choices earned a rebuke from one former champion, with Nick Faldo likening Bubba's menu to something from a fast-food outlet. "You had a year to decide on, grilled chicken, mashed potatoes, corn, macaroni & cheese!!! #Happy-Meal #PlayLikeaChampion," he tweeted.
The criticism did not affect Watson, however, with the emotional American hitting a hole-in-one during a final practice round.
Golden time for Guan
Jack Nicklaus was set to babysit Guan Tianlang the night before he tees off for the first time.
The Golden Bear said the pair had exchanged emails but wasn't sure what they would talk about. "I don't have many 14 year-olds ask for golf advice," he said.
Poulter shows Gallic guts
The former mentor of Ian Poulter, who gave him his break by offering him a position at Leighton Buzzard Golf Club, has described the European Ryder Cup hero as having "balls the size of France".
Lee Scarbrow also said he feels the only person who will be less surprised if Poulter broke his major duck this year would be the man himself. Scarbrow felt that "when the chips are down, there's no one better".
Top 50 make cut
More players will make the halfway cut in the Masters this year after Augusta National chairman Billy Payne announced changes to the system used for 50 years.
Since 1962, the top 44 players and those tied for 44th after 36 holes have made the cut, but that will be increased to 50 and ties this week. Any player within 10 shots of the lead will also still qualify.
But, only the top 12 from this year will earn invitations to return to Augusta next year – down from the current 16.
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