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AUGUSTA, Ga ()- For many years, John Daly has been an iconic figure during Masters Week in Augusta. Previously, the golfer was a regular fixture at Hooters, where he enjoyed interacting with fans. However, since the restaurant’s closure and subsequent demolition, Daly has had to find a new venue to continue his tradition.
Known affectionately as “Big John” or “Wild Thing,” Daly’s popularity among his supporters remains unwavering. This year, he has relocated his meet-and-greet to Top Dawg Tavern, located just across from the former Hooters site. The new location is attracting hundreds of fans eager to meet the golfing legend.
“I’ve watched him play, and I think he’s absolutely hilarious,” said Scott Stroop, a golf enthusiast from Savannah. “When we heard he’d be here, we just couldn’t resist stopping by to see what was happening.”
The influx of visitors during Masters Week has always kept Top Dawg Tavern bustling, but this year, John Daly’s presence is drawing even more patrons through the doors.
“Having John Daly here is definitely boosting our business,” shared David Langdale, Top Dawg Tavern’s manager. “A lot of people would have headed to Hooters if it were still around, but now they’re coming here specifically to see Daly.”
Langdale told NewsChannel 6 that having Daly at Top Dawg Tavern all week has been a blast.
“The myth, the legend. Yes, ma’am. He is definitely fun to hang out with. He takes pictures with all the kids and anybody that asks for an autograph and a picture, he’s there to help them out. He loves it,” Langdale said.
Daly’s won two major championships but never a Masters. He’s not your typical pro golfer– which some say is what makes him appealing.
“Just the way he…he’s just like an everyday golfer. He takes the swing way too far back in his back swing and he swings as hard as he can. But he’s– he is a legend. He’s a really good golfer. And he’s just hilarious. I mean, he’s just kind of a knucklehead, you know?” Stroop laughed.
Top Dawg Tavern hopes the restaurant becomes Daly’s new landing spot during the Masters going forward.
“John Daly being here has been a big success, and we definitely would love to see him come back next year and stuff. So, we’re treating him well. He’s treating us well and he’s having a lot of fun. So we do expect him back here next year,” said Langdale.
We weren’t able to speak with Daly because of how many people were waiting to meet him. However, his people told us that he’s loved being at Top Dawg Tavern and praised the experience, saying it’s been excellent.
John Daly will be at Top Dawg Tavern every day during Masters week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
He will be at Top Golf Friday night only, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.