After suffering the first cut of his eight Masters appearances Friday, John Daly hopped into a brown van and rode down Magnolia Lane for what might be the last time.
Daly's five-year exemption to the Masters, earned with his 1995 British Open victory, expires after this year.
His week was cut short by a miserable first round Thursday, when he shot an 8-over 80. It was his worst round since a final-round 87 at the Bay Hill Invitational on March 19.
A 1-over 73 Friday left him with a 9-over 153. Daly had two birdies Friday, four for the tournament.
Daly's departure was as quiet as his style was loud. After he finished his round, Daly walked off the 18th green and was asked for comment by reporters.
``I really don't have much to say,'' was his response.
|
John Daly thinks about his next shot as he looks up the No. 5 fairway.Jeff Janowski/Chronicle Staff
|
Daly walked into the locker room, where he again refused to comment. He put his belongings in a plastic bag and headed to the parking lot, where he got into the van whose Tennessee license plate read ``PGA 91,'' a reference to his landmark victory in the PGA Championship as a tour rookie.
Though he said little to indicate it, Daly appeared shaken by his performance and its implications. The 5-foot-11, 225-pounder said earlier this week that it would be ``sad'' if he didn't get to play here in 2001.
``I live and die for this tournament every year,'' said Daly, whose best Masters appearance was a tie for third in 1993. ``But that's golf. If you don't play well, you don't deserve to get in.''
Daly has suffered through a forgettable 2000 season, having been cut from three events - the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic, the Nissan Open and the Doral Ryder Open - and having withdrawn from another, the Tucson Open.
His best finish in the past five years was a tie for fourth in the Nissan Open and Honda Classic in 1998. He leads the PGA Tour in driving distance (298.6 yards per drive) but he's 174th in driving accuracy, 172nd in hitting greens in regulation and 115th in putting.
Daly's decision eight months ago to resume drinking and gambling cost him his sponsorship with Callaway Golf. In an interview this month with Esquire Magazine, he said he indulges in his habits responsibly.
``I don't drink and drive,'' he said. ``I don't drink every day. I don't drink to get drunk. It's all common sense. You can figure it out on your own.''
Daly makes quiet departure
