Will Zalatoris’ breakout season continued with a runner-up finish at this weekend’s Masters Tournament, his first appearance at golf’s premier event. As a result, the 24-year-old Texan shot up from 46th to 27th in the world rankings.
While watching the Masters from afar, actor/comedian Adam Sandler—arguably best known for his portrayal of failed-hockey-player-turned-professional-golfer Happy Gilmore in the 1996 comedy of the same name—couldn’t help but notice Zalatoris’ striking resemblance to Gilmore’s first caddy in the movie, a nameless, blonde teenager assigned to carry Happy’s bags at the Waterbury Open. Despite his obvious inexperience, Gilmore, with guidance from mentor Chubbs Peterson (played by Carl Weathers of Rocky fame), won handily, though he used a different (significantly less hygienic) caddy on the pro tour.
Shortly after carding a final-round 70 (-2), Zalatoris playfully responded to Sandler’s tweet, expressing his desire to caddy for Gilmore again someday.
Zalatoris put forth a valiant effort at Augusta but ultimately finished one shot off the pace set by Hideki Matsuyama, who claimed his first Masters title on the strength of an incredible third-round 65 (-7). In doing so, the 29-year-old Matsuyama became the first Japanese player to win a major championship.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Sign Up and Follow Audacy Sports
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram