'I just got goosebumps'

Martin leaves U.S. Open with confidence

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Posted: Monday June 22, 1998 01:15 AM

Martin tied for 23rd place, finishing one stroke behind former Stanford teammate Tiger Woods (AP)

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) -- After a week filled with excitement and emotion, Casey Martin was proud of his golf game as he prepared to return to reality -- life on the Nike Tour.

Martin, who has a diseased right leg and walks with a limp, was the center of media and fan attention for the opening two rounds as he became the first player to drive a cart in a U.S. Open.

The spotlight dimmed a bit on the weekend, but he still remembered being close to tears on the first tee Thursday because of the crowd's adoration.

"It's overwhelming, it's like a dream. People treated me unbelievable here," he said Sunday. "I just got goosebumps."

Martin will take this week off, then play in the Greater Hartford Open and then head back to the Nike Tour -- the minor league of golf.

He shot 74-71-74-72 for an 11-over 291 at The Olympic Club, and came away from the Open with the confidence he can play on the PGA Tour.

"I have the realization that I can play with these guys," he said. "I think I have a lot more game than what I showed. I think if I can play better I can become a fixture out here."  

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