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The three iconic golf holes that Gareth Bale has replicated in his backyard
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- The three iconic golf holes that Gareth Bale has replicated in his backyard
Photo by David Cannon/Getty Images
Gareth Bale's golfing fandom was a source of real controversy during his professional career.
The former Real Madrid star was on the receiving end of anger from Madrid fans when it appeared that he was showing more commitment to his golfing game than he was to Los Blancos.
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That led Bale to hold a Welsh flag that read, "Wales. Golf. Madrid. In that order," while celebrating a win for his country.
Whatever you think about the football star's golfing habits, it can't be denied that they have done wonders for his game. He's a scratch golfer, has impressed at pro-ams frequently, and there are even some rumours about his ability to one day turn pro.
His love for the sport is such that he's even built replicas of three of the world's most iconic golf holes in his backyard.
Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images
The three golf holes that Gareth Bale has in his backyard
Bale is so obsessed that he's built three of golf's most recognizable holes in his backyard to practice on all day long.
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The first is the 12th at Augusta National, of course. The hole, called Golden Bell, is one of the most treacherous par threes in the world, as players at Augusta National are forced to play a shot over the water in Rae's Creek down the stretch at The Masters.
Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images
The second hole Bale has in his yard is the 17th hole at TPC Sawgrass, known as the 'Island Green'. It might be the single most difficult par three on the planet, as players are forced to land their ball on the firm green, completely surrounded by water.
Bale also has the Postage Stamp hole from Royal Troon in his yard. Known for the "Coffin Bunker" lining the left side of the green, this par three is renowned for its narrow green and deadly bunkers on every side.
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By picking these three holes, Bale is certainly testing his ability!
What Gareth Bale said about golf when playing for Real Madrid
Madrid fans weren't happy about Bale's golfing obsession, but he didn't seem to mind. He retired at 33 years old, in part because of his growing injury history and also to work on his golf game.
When he was a Madrid player, he said the only thing he'd thought about doing when he was retired was playing golf.
He said, "I try to play as much golf as possible. In fact, I'm obsessed with it. I've not really thought about what I'll be doing in 20 years when I'm retired from football, but, hopefully, I will be playing golf."
Now he's got his wish, and hopefully he's happier for it!
