Story Published:
Apr 10, 2009 at 6:52 PM EST
Story Updated:
Apr 10, 2009 at 6:52 PM EST
AUGUSTA, Ga. – He is a golfer who has amazed the galleries with his booming drives and someone who's won two major titles.
But, a troubled past has John Daly spending this week outside Augusta National Golf Club.
“That's him! He's a piece of work,” a group of fans said on the way to the Masters on Friday.
The piece of work they were referring to is suspended pro golfer John Daly who, rather than playing inside the Augusta National, has set up shop outside of it.
“Wow that's John Daly selling merchandise,” another passing fan said.
Shirts, hats and t-shirts are just some of the merchandise Daly is selling and signing just feet away from the entrance to the course.
“My company means everything to me and it's just something that keeps me busy when I do have the time off,” Daly said.
That time off is due to Daly's 6 month suspension by the PGA. Daly has won two major titles – the PGA Championship in 1991 and The Open Championship in 1995 and has played in The Masters, but he's also had personal problems including a couple of trips to rehab.
“Who doesn't have problems in the past? I've always told people when I screw up. When I do things wrong,” Daly said.
In his time off Daly has also lost more than 40 pounds after having his stomach size reduced.
“I've got more energy. I feel like doing things more,” Daly said.
“He's not drinking. He's on a 1200 calorie diet,” Daly’s girlfriend, Anna Cladakis said.
Cladakis says fans that drop by to pick up merchandise and meet the golfer have been supportive.
“I can't believe how many people embraced him. That's done so much for his self esteem. Just motivated him a lot,” Cladakis said.
“He's a real every day type of guy. He's like us,” fan, Kelly Stadnicki, said.
Stadnicki says he's been by to see Daly for three days straight. He says Daly's past makes him more relatable.
“He's just a normal human. He made the mistake but he's recovered,” he said.
“Most of the fans want to see me do well and I want to get back out there and do well for them too,” Daly said.
Daly's suspension will ends in May. He's also getting ready to play on the European tour later this month.
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