AUGUSTA, GA. – Paul Casey has complained about playing golf in a pandemic. He says he misses the fans, and the energy they bring to tournaments. This is proof that we often don't know what's good for us.
On Thursday, Casey shot a 65 in the first round to take a two-shot lead at The Masters. He has never won a major despite compiling 20 victories around the world. Before 2020, he had failed to finish in the top 10 in his previous 11 majors.
Then, at the fan-less PGA Championship at Harding Park, he finished second. He finished in a tie for 17th at the U.S. Open, and now he leads The Masters.
And he's enjoying the experience. Casey joked with his caddie on the seventh green and greeted an official behind the green, saying, "Good to see you again."
After he walked off the ninth green at the conclusion of his round, he gave the thumbs-up sign to a couple of photographers, greeting one by name.
Major championship golf is supposed to be draining. Casey is displaying the demeanor of someone playing pop-a-shot at Chuck E. Cheese.
"You know, this is something I've looked forward to," Casey said. "I was vocal earlier in the year at Harding Park about not enjoying golf in a pandemic. I'm acutely aware that I'm in a very fortuitous position. I still get to be a professional golfer and play championship golf, but I didn't know how the fanless experience would be.
"And so far, I've not enjoyed it, and it's lacked energy, for me. I've had nothing or very little to draw from being out playing tournament golf. The Masters, though, this week, it still has a buzz to it. There's an energy and a little bit of a vibe. Yes, it's clearly a lot less than what we are used to, but there's something about this place that is still — I felt excited to be here."
