Gary Player insists the sale of the 1974 Claret Jug replica was unauthorized: “My lawyers are considering my options”

The recent auction of a replica of Gary Player’s 1974 Claret Jug has sparked a heated debate on social media and in the legal community. This trophy has been the subject of controversy due to what Players called an “unauthorized” sale.

Ryan Carey, president of Golden Age, the auction house that conducted the sale, maintains that the transaction was conducted in accordance with the law and with full transparency.

Gary Player vs. Golden Age: Social media feud continues

A controversy has erupted on X (formerly Twitter) as Gary Player posted a second statement responding to the words of Golden Age’s president about the legality of the sale. Player said the following in his new pos

“I note that the auctioneers defended their sale of the 1974 Open replica following my statement of disassociation and disappointment that the sale proceeded despite my lawyers attempt to stop the sale. The auctioneers seem to suggest that the item was consigned directly or indirectly through Black Knight International and that reference alone was sufficient to ‘indicate’ my knowledge, support or consent.”

“However, from prior communication, the auctioneer is aware that towards the end of 2018, I terminated my professional relationship with Black Knight International, a company that previously represented me and was wholly owned by my son, Marc Player. As part of this termination my son was obliged to return all of my trophies and memorabilia in his possession.”

“He did not do so, and from time to time trophies and memorabilia that rightly belong to me have surfaced at auctions without my prior permission or consent. The recent sale of the 1974 Claret Jug replica is one such item.”

“In addition, the sale is in breach of the terms under which the R&A initially made the replica available to Mr Player and under which it could not be sold without prior consultation with the R&A. My lawyers are considering my options.”

Previously, Golden Age Auctions had issued a rebuttal via their X account. Ryan Carey, president of Golden Age Auctions, called Gary Player‘s protest “inaccurate” because he had “full knowledge” of the sales.
The situation escalated when Gary Player’s son, Marc, reposted the following post on X:

Here’s some facts. Your son Marc did not sell your trophies, you did. Please stop allowing those in your ear and managing your social media accounts to tarnish what little of a legacy you have left. https://t.co/h77tgN87dQ pic.twitter.com/YpXiVo0rE3

— AGG – Sandie (@AugustaGolfGirl) August 2, 2024

The original author of the post included a screenshot of a statement from Darren Rovell, the founder of cllct.com and a leading reporter on the collectibles market. Rovell previously held positions at ESPN, CNBC and Action Network.

The outcome of this dispute may have a lasting impact on the reputation of Gary Player, a prominent figure in the golf industry. The ongoing public debate may affect the perception of his legacy and his relationship with fans and the general public.

From another standpoint, this case highlights the responsibility of auction houses to verify the legitimacy and consent of transactions involving historic and valuable items.