As Bubba Watson teed his ball up at 8.20 am, the Mayor of Madrid, José Luis Martínez-Almeida, was there, ready to play alongside him. It was an opportunity that was just too good to miss. Because if there’s one player worth watching in person, it’s Bubba. His impossible shots, trajectories that defy all logic and distinctive way of approaching golf make sharing a round with him an experience that’s practically impossible to turn down.
The mayor enjoyed the first nine holes alongside the two-time Masters champion, before completing the back nine with Tyrrell Hatton. A high-calibre double act to start the day, and a reflection of the quality in a Pro-Am to whet the appetite ahead of the Open de España presented by Madrid.
They were not the only familiar faces at Real Club de Campo Villa de Madrid. John Terry and Ashley Cole made their first appearance at the club, playing alongside a truly exceptional golfer: Patrick Reed. The two former footballers shared nine holes with the Masters champion, who is one of the biggest draws in this year’s field.
Feliciano López was also in the mix, playing nine holes with Jordan Gumberg on a day when sportsmen once again mixed with the people of Madrid. Risto Mejide was among the participants too, providing a perfect example of how golf can become a healthy obsession.
Risto has not been playing the game for long, but he is completely hooked. The man himself summed up his relationship with the sport: ‘Never in my life have I enjoyed something so much that I was so bad at.’ Golf will do that to you; you try it once and, almost without realising it, you end up wanting to play again and again. Risto has already fallen under its spell.
All this fun was accompanied by some glorious Madrid sunshine. Fine weather, blue skies, a superb atmosphere and a Real Club de Campo that looks all set for the big week. Professionals and amateurs shared their rounds, laughter and experiences on a day that offered a different perspective on the tournament.
The Open de España has not officially begun yet. But with Bubba, Hatton, Reed, Feliciano, Risto, Terry, Cole and the Mayor all out on the course, Madrid’s big week of golf is already underway.
