The 1968 Masters tournament will forever be remembered for Roberto De Vicenzo’s infamous scoring error that cost him a chance at the green jacket. After signing an incorrect scorecard, De Vicenzo missed out on an 18-hole playoff, allowing Bob Goalby to claim victory. Despite Goalby’s stellar performance on Sunday, the public perception was that he had not won, but rather, De Vicenzo had lost. Goalby received a significant amount of negative mail following the event, with many accusing him of cheating, despite the fact that De Vicenzo’s mistake was independent of Goalby’s play.
In a recent interview on the Destination Golf podcast, Kye Goalby, Bob’s son, shared insights into his father’s experience following the controversial Masters victory. While Bob Goalby initially struggled with the aftermath of De Vicenzo’s error, he eventually came to terms with the situation. Despite offers from major TV networks to participate in a televised match against De Vicenzo, Goalby declined, seeing it as a no-win situation. Over time, Goalby learned to handle the public scrutiny with grace, recognizing that he was still a Masters winner, regardless of the surrounding controversies.
One key figure who helped Bob Goalby navigate the aftermath of the 1968 Masters was Augusta National co-founder Bobby Jones. Jones sent Goalby a letter praising his performance during the tournament, emphasizing that he had won fair and square, and that he should hold his head high as a Masters champion. The letter, framed on Goalby’s office wall, served as a source of inspiration for both Bob and Kye Goalby, reminding them of the significance of Goalby’s victory despite the controversies surrounding it. Kye Goalby fondly remembers reading and admiring the letter as a child.
Despite the initial challenges and public scrutiny, Bob Goalby’s resilience and ability to handle the aftermath of the 1968 Masters incident with grace and dignity have left a lasting impact on his family. His son, Kye Goalby, acknowledges his father’s strength and perseverance in the face of adversity, emphasizing that Bob Goalby’s legacy as a Masters champion remains untarnished. The letter from Bobby Jones serves as a poignant reminder of Goalby’s rightful place among the elite winners of the prestigious tournament. His story continues to inspire golf enthusiasts and serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of challenges.
