🎙️ Podcast Summary:

While the green jackets stroll the pristine fairways of Augusta National, just a mile down the road, the real party rages on at Hooters—hosted by none other than golf’s resident wild man, John Daly. Every Masters week since 1997, Daly’s set up his unofficial “tailgate” on the Hooters patio, turning it into a pop-up shrine for the fans who love their golf a little less buttoned-up. There are autographs, cigars, neon merch, and, of course, plenty of Diet Coke and Marlboros. “Eat some good food, smoke, sell some s---,” Daly sums up his mission, in between posing for fan photos and reminiscing about his improbable rise from ninth alternate to major champion. While he hasn’t teed it up at the Masters since 2006, Daly still draws a crowd bigger than most pros, proving there’s more than one way to be a legend in Augusta.

🟢 Key Takeaways:

• John Daly has stationed himself at Augusta’s Hooters during Masters week every year since 1997—even though he hasn’t played in the Masters since 2006.

• Fans line up in all weather to meet Daly, who sells $40 caps, $250 cigar boxes (branded “Short Game”), signed pin flags from his 1991 PGA win, $10 autographed golf balls—and reportedly moved $780,000 in merch last year.

• Daly’s legendary status stems not just from his two major titles (1991 PGA and 1995 Open) but from his relatable, blue-collar vibe: crushing drives, smoking Marlboros, and rocking wild outfits. As one fan put it: “He’s just an everyday guy—he’s the guy you want in your foursome.”

• Despite Augusta National’s high society atmosphere, Daly’s pop-up offers fans “a different kind of energy,” says Hooters waitress Alexis Davis. “You can have both,” she adds. “The Masters and still let loose.”

• Daly doesn’t earn an appearance fee for this Hooters event—it’s all grassroots and embedded in his brand. Fans show their appreciation with gifts like Vidalia onions, cheese from Wisconsin, and even custom pet paintings.

• Daly has overcome serious health issues, including bladder cancer and multiple surgeries, quipping, “I got more metal in me than the Bionic Man… but I’m still living, man.”

• His son, John Daly II, just nabbed his first collegiate win at the Columbia Spring Invitational—and unlike his dad, “He’s going to concentrate on the golf,” Daly says proudly.

• Despite not having a green jacket or Hall of Fame induction, Daly finds meaning in his loyal following: “Blue-collar people are supposed to connect... I may never get in the Hall of Fame, but you know what? It seems like I’ll always have the fans.”

🏌️ Highlight Quote:
"Eat some good food, smoke, sell some s---." — John Daly, the self-proclaimed king of the “other” Augusta

🧢 Fan Favorites for Daly Merch:

• “Short Game” Cigars – $250 per box, sold out by Wednesday
• Signature Hats & T-Shirts – featuring Daly’s iconic slogans & image
• Replica 1991 PGA Championship Pin Flags – $100
• Signed Golf Balls – $10 (“$1 for the ball, $9 for the signature”)

🎯 Context:
John Daly represents the people’s champ at the Masters—a rebel spirit in a sport known for its polish. With no official invite to the tournament, he continues to be one of its biggest informal attractions. While Augusta National enforces a no-phones, no-cameras, no-cigs policy, just down the road, Daly offers selfies, smokes, and stories—all with a smile.

So if you’re headed to the Masters and skip Hooters? As one fan bluntly put it: “Then where you at?”
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