India, April 10 -- The collective insights from 35 major championships have highlighted the necessary steps for Indian golf to cultivate its first major champion.

Since Gaurav Ghei became the first Indian to qualify for a major at the 1997 Open Championship, seven other male golfers have participated in 55 events. Anirban Lahiri's tied fifth finish at the 2015 PGA Championship remains the highest achievement to date.

Following an impressive start to the 89th Masters on Thursday, the Hindustan Times sought the opinions of Honorary Starters Jack Nicklaus (18 majors), Gary Player (9), and Tom Watson (8) regarding how India could develop its own golfing legend.

Jack Nicklaus, a six-time Masters champion, emphasized the importance of players gaining access to higher-level tours and the need for young golfers to look up to a player who breaks through to success.

"We have several talented Indian golfers. If we reflect on the impact of Bernhard Langer in Europe, who inspired players like Seve Ballesteros, a similar phenomenon will occur in India. It’s only a matter of time," remarked the 85-year-old.

"Essentially, they need access to tours and opportunities to compete. It doesn’t matter if you grow up in Lincoln, Nebraska; you must venture beyond Lincoln to compete across Nebraska, then to the Midwest, and eventually in national tournaments.

"The situation in India is no different. While the population is certainly there, the facilities to encourage young talent to play are lacking.

"The players who emerge from India will motivate others to pursue their own paths and establish their names. It’s just a matter of time before this happens, as the talent is present."

Watson accurately identified the scarcity of golf courses in India as a significant barrier. With around 220 courses in the country, most are situated on military land and inaccessible to civilians, leaving only two municipal courses available.

To be direct, I believe there is a shortage of golf courses. The United States boasts over 25,000 courses, with 70-80 percent being accessible to the public. This allows individuals to play without needing a membership, as noted by the five-time Open champion.

"In India, cricket is the predominant sport, which reflects cultural values. Introducing golf to children is essential. At Watson Links, my goal is to engage young players on the course with a mentor, allowing them to play nine holes for both experience and to ignite a passion for the game. My father instilled that passion in me when I was six years old. I was fortunate to have access to a golf course as a child, which is crucial for development.

"Once that foundation is established, programs similar to those in Sweden and the initiatives by the USGA (United States Golf Association) become vital. A structured development system for aspiring golfers is essential for those aiming for excellence."

The three-time Masters champion also emphasized the importance of physical capabilities, effective teaching methods, and mental resilience.

"We are overwhelmed with aspiring professional golfers, many of whom are unlikely to succeed. Nowadays, the standard par is 68, and players are even beginning to drive par-4 holes. We have yet to see a physically dominant player in golf. Imagine if someone like LeBron James or Michael Jordan, with their athleticism, took up the game; they would easily drive many par-4s," remarked the 90-year-old South African.

"The quality of instruction today is significantly inferior to what we experienced in our youth. Current teachings often encourage golfers to adopt incorrect wrist positions at the top of their backswing, which can be detrimental. The focus should be on achieving the correct club position at the top, followed by a proper turn and unwind. The misguided advice I hear today is concerning.

"Moreover, the swing itself is not the determining factor. Success in major championships is largely a mental game. Each multiple major winner possesses a unique mindset. Commitment, proper nutrition, adequate rest, and diligent practice are essential. Ultimately, the decision lies with you."

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