12-under 276. Now, while that may not seem like an extraordinary score to some of you, every golf fan who watched the 1996 Masters will readily argue otherwise. That was the winning score posted by Nick Faldo, who came from six strokes behind in the final round to claim his third Masters title. It was a stunning turnaround, given that Greg Norman had tied a course record with a 63 in the opening round and held a commanding lead through 36 holes, setting a record with his 12-under.
While many remember the 1996 Masters for Greg Norman‘s infamous collapse, it’s often overlooked that Nick Faldo shot an impressive five under par to win his sixth major. Norman himself acknowledged Faldo’s performance, saying, “Nick played great golf. There’s no two ways about it. He played great, and I played poor.” So, what does the winner think about the moment?
Veteran golfer’s true thoughts on the legendary Masters victory
Norman’s collapse on Sunday was one for the ages, as he signed for a 78, and Faldo shot a 67 to win by six strokes, becoming the sixth player with at least three Masters titles. This memorable victory has become an integral part of golf history, and Faldo still looks back on it fondly. In fact, speaking on the latest episode of Sky Sports Golf on YouTube, Sir Nick Faldo revealed that he’s more than happy to reminisce about his infamous 1996 Masters win, which is often referred to as “Greg’s meltdown” due to Greg Norman’s dramatic collapse on the final day.
Greg Norman’s 1996 Masters collapse unfolded dramatically. His six-shot lead crumbled early with four front-nine bogeys. Disaster struck at Amen Corner when his tee shot on the 12th found the water, leading to a double bogey. Desperate to recover, he misfired again on the 15th, finding water and sealing his fate. The 16th was the last straw, where his approach splashed into the pond, handing Nick Faldo an insurmountable lead and one of golf’s most infamous comebacks.
Faldo, who shot a 67 on that final day to win by five shots, doesn’t seem bothered by the label, saying “I’m quite happy to sit here and talk about it… I’m blessed that so many people saw that around the world and they know the facts.” He shared some amusing anecdotes about how often people bring up the 1996 Masters when they meet him, from airport encounters to business meetings, and even recalled a meeting in the Philippines where government officials wanted to hear about his win before discussing golf course design.
Faldo laughed it off, saying “It’s like having a great album people love to play it… I’m very happy and I hope we can celebrate in some fun way next year.” With the 30th anniversary of his win approaching, Faldo is looking forward to celebrating with his friend Greg Norman and others who were there.
Dec 16, 2023; Orlando, Florida, USA; Nick Faldo selects an iron for his shot plays his shot on the fourth tee during the PNC Championship at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports
Besides, Norman’s cathartic thoughts have offered valuable lessons for others, including a young Adam Scott, who would later face his own major meltdown. Scott, who was just 15 at the time, drew inspiration from Norman’s graciousness in defeat. When Scott suffered his own heartbreaking loss to Ernie Els at the 2012 Open, he recalled Norman’s example and faced the media with courage.
Scott reflected, “You can’t be afraid to lose. You have to put yourself in that position because it’s the only way you’ll ever win.” Its evident that Norman’s sportsmanship can go on as an evergreen advice. By the way, do you think this year’s tournament will be as exciting as the 1996 game? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!
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