Jose Luis Ballester gained the 2024 U.S. Beginner, which granted him a spot on the Masters this 12 months, however the 21-year-old’s first time competing within the main on the famed course was overshadowed by a second through the first-round motion.
Ballester seemingly admitted that he had urinated in Rae’s Creek at Amen Nook at Augusta Nationwide Golf Membership on Thursday. The Spaniard stated he “completely forgot that we had those restrooms to the left of the (13th) tee box,” and after taking part in associate Justin Thomas “had an issue on the green,” he stated he had taken benefit.
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Jose Luis Ballester performs his shot from the primary tee through the first spherical of the Masters Event. (Peter Casey-Imagn Photographs)
However because the hours and days following the incident in query handed, Ballester started making it clear that he was able to put the now-infamous second behind him.
“I already apologized to the club, and I think we just move on from this moment,” Ballester responded to questions on whether or not Augusta Nationwide officers had spoken to him about his actions.
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Ballester additionally competes within the collegiate ranks for the Arizona State Solar Devils. He arrived at Augusta Nationwide on Thursday sporting a hat that stated “Sun Devils” the other way up.
Jose Luis Ballester tees off on no. 5 through the first spherical of the Masters Event. (Kyle Terada-Imagn Photographs)
Friday didn’t go in response to plan for Ballester, as he ended up lacking the reduce. Nonetheless, he had a optimistic takeaway and took benefit of the chance to study from Thomas and his different associate, Scottie Scheffler, who has gained two of the final three Masters.
“These guys are here especially because of how good they are around the greens, how much knowledge they have, how good they are at perceiving the slopes and reading greens,” Ballester stated.
“I hit many good shots with drivers and irons both days, but what I felt that those guys are in a completely [different] level from where I am is around the greens.”
Jose Luis Ballester and Justin Thomas shake palms on the 18th inexperienced through the first spherical of the Masters Event. (Michael Madrid-Imagn Photographs)
Final 12 months, newbie Neal Shipley spent his closing spherical with five-time winner Tiger Woods.
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Ballester acknowledged the disappointing outcome on the event, however he additionally expressed optimism about his future. “It was not a great week for me in that aspect, but also looking forward to the next opportunities that I get to see how I compare myself with them,” he stated.
As of Saturday afternoon, Justin Rose was atop the Masters Leaderboard at 8 below par. In the meantime, Scheffler was working to maneuver out of a four-way tie for fifth place as third-round motion performed out.
Fox Information’ Ryan Morik contributed to this report.
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