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Deadspin | Perfection without pretension: The Masters through the eyes of an Augusta National rookie Apr 6, 2026; Augusta, Georgia, USA; Patrons move around the grounds during a practice round for the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club. Mandatory Credit: Michael Madrid-Imagn Images AUGUSTA, Ga. — Scottie Scheffler said this week that growing up as an American golfer, Augusta National is the place you always want to get to. Having spent the better part of four decades with the Masters on my life bucket list — much less sports or specifically even golf — I’ve had at least one goal in common with the best player of his generation. I’ve been extremely fortunate to cover more than a dozen Super Bowls, several major golf championships and countless events throughout my journalism career. But 2026 is the year I finally got the opportunity to cover the Masters. And to say the Masters experience has thus far exceeded extremely lofty expectations would not be doing this place justice. From the first greeting with a volunteer at the press gate to meeting Augusta National members, almost every interaction has been with a smile and every step on the impeccable grounds surreal. And something less tangible is the general vibe throughout the grounds. It’s genuine. Once a year, one of the most private places in the golf community opens its arms wide — and chock full of Southern charm — to the world. The Masters, with all of its traditions, historic buildings and green jackets, is anything but your father’s stuffy country club. Club members roam the press building, offering to help in any way that they can. I’m guessing the member from Australia, a private equity professional, who struck up a conversation with myself and a colleague typically has better things to do. The message starts from the top. Asked about the “spirit” at the Masters, AGNC chairman Fred S. Ridley said it goes back to the founding of the club. “The real motivation behind starting the Masters Tournament — of course it was not called that at the beginning — but the impetus was really to serve the game of golf,” he said. “So we look at ourselves as servants of the game of golf. “We want this experience to be the best that it can be for everyone who sets foot on the grounds.” It’s not empty rhetoric for cameras and journalists gathered here from around the world. That mission is backed up and evident in every nook and cranny of the grounds. Those grounds are expansive in a way television cameras cannot remotely do justice. And they’re expanding further with strategic land purchases and lengthened holes. When you hear players talk about Augusta National being a difficult 18 holes to walk, they’re not whining. I walked the course to get a perspective of all 18 holes, and it’s a legitimate workout. The elevation changes and rolling hills throughout the property make for a solid cardio workout. What really separates the Masters is the innate ability of the club to adapt to the times without sacrificing its rich traditions. Ridley referred to it as the tension between “respecting tradition and innovating.” A few years ago, the club allowed the crew from Dude Perfect to play frisbee at the iconic “Amen Corner.” Ridley admitted it “may not have been the best idea,” but it also represents that forward-thinking mindset that keeps generation after generation flocking to Augusta every spring. Next week, visitors will be able to stop by and play The Patch, a local municipal golf course that the ANGC carried a significant role in restoring in conjunction with Tiger Woods and the TRMW company. Why? “We feel that one of our obligation contributing to our community. So that opens up a number of opportunities,” Ridley said. “We felt that there was an opportunity to take a wonderful piece of property and to transform it into something that was just really life-changing for many people in this community.” Scheffler is one of numerous players who have used the word “enjoyable” to describe their experiences at Augusta National. True, it’s hard not to be happy at one of the world’s most iconic golf courses with unlimited resources and a near-perfect forecast for the week. But it’s more than that. ANGC has gone to great lengths to preserve a unique experience. No cellphones means no “selfies” being asked of the players. Patrons are truly focused on the golf. A fleet of volunteers and workers who annually descend upon Augusta from around the country are available to answer questions and ensure crowds are able to move about the grounds without significant hassle. England’s Aaron Rai walked off the 18th green following a practice round Tuesday. After signing a few autographs, he walked a few feet to greet several family members. He was among the patrons, all of whom respected his personal space. Not far away, Jake Knapp stood near the clubhouse casually talking to friends without interruption. “For us as players, it’s really an enjoyable experience, just how things are organized,” Scheffler said. “You’ve got the kids autograph area by the range. There’s no adults sneaking in there. Everybody’s afraid to break the rules. “Augusta’s put some rules in place that make this not only a special experience for us, but a special experience for the patrons as well.” There are six amateurs in the field this week, many of whom have been able to grab practice rounds with the world’s top professionals. Brandon Holtz, a 39-year-old real estate agent from Bloomington, Ill., qualified for his first Masters as the reigning U.S. Mid-Am Champion. It’s one of several qualification paths the Masters has opened, and Holtz has played practice rounds with Tommy Fleetwood and Jordan Spieth the past two days. He’ll play the first two rounds of the tournament paired with Bubba Watson and Nico Echavarria. “It’s a well-operated machine out here,” Holtz said. “Fans are great. Golf course obviously magnificent. The best by far golf course I’ve ever played.” It’s an all-encompassing vibe that generates a tradition that’s truly unlike any other. And we haven’t seen the first official tee shot yet. –Derek Harper, Field Level Media #Deadspin #Perfection #pretension #Masters #eyes #Augusta #National #rookie

Deadspin | Perfection without pretension: The Masters through the eyes of an Augusta National rookie
Deadspin | Perfection without pretension: The Masters through the eyes of an Augusta National rookie Apr 6, 2026; Augusta, Georgia, USA; Patrons move around the grounds during a practice round for the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club. Mandatory Credit: Michael Madrid-Imagn Images AUGUSTA, Ga. — Scottie Scheffler said this week that growing up as an American golfer, Augusta National is the place you always want to get to. Having spent the better part of four decades with the Masters on my life bucket list — much less sports or specifically even golf — I’ve had at least one goal in common with the best player of his generation. I’ve been extremely fortunate to cover more than a dozen Super Bowls, several major golf championships and countless events throughout my journalism career. But 2026 is the year I finally got the opportunity to cover the Masters. And to say the Masters experience has thus far exceeded extremely lofty expectations would not be doing this place justice. From the first greeting with a volunteer at the press gate to meeting Augusta National members, almost every interaction has been with a smile and every step on the impeccable grounds surreal. And something less tangible is the general vibe throughout the grounds. It’s genuine. Once a year, one of the most private places in the golf community opens its arms wide — and chock full of Southern charm — to the world. The Masters, with all of its traditions, historic buildings and green jackets, is anything but your father’s stuffy country club. Club members roam the press building, offering to help in any way that they can. I’m guessing the member from Australia, a private equity professional, who struck up a conversation with myself and a colleague typically has better things to do. The message starts from the top. Asked about the “spirit” at the Masters, AGNC chairman Fred S. Ridley said it goes back to the founding of the club. “The real motivation behind starting the Masters Tournament — of course it was not called that at the beginning — but the impetus was really to serve the game of golf,” he said. “So we look at ourselves as servants of the game of golf. “We want this experience to be the best that it can be for everyone who sets foot on the grounds.” It’s not empty rhetoric for cameras and journalists gathered here from around the world. That mission is backed up and evident in every nook and cranny of the grounds. Those grounds are expansive in a way television cameras cannot remotely do justice. And they’re expanding further with strategic land purchases and lengthened holes. When you hear players talk about Augusta National being a difficult 18 holes to walk, they’re not whining. I walked the course to get a perspective of all 18 holes, and it’s a legitimate workout. The elevation changes and rolling hills throughout the property make for a solid cardio workout. What really separates the Masters is the innate ability of the club to adapt to the times without sacrificing its rich traditions. Ridley referred to it as the tension between “respecting tradition and innovating.” A few years ago, the club allowed the crew from Dude Perfect to play frisbee at the iconic “Amen Corner.” Ridley admitted it “may not have been the best idea,” but it also represents that forward-thinking mindset that keeps generation after generation flocking to Augusta every spring. Next week, visitors will be able to stop by and play The Patch, a local municipal golf course that the ANGC carried a significant role in restoring in conjunction with Tiger Woods and the TRMW company. Why? “We feel that one of our obligation contributing to our community. So that opens up a number of opportunities,” Ridley said. “We felt that there was an opportunity to take a wonderful piece of property and to transform it into something that was just really life-changing for many people in this community.” Scheffler is one of numerous players who have used the word “enjoyable” to describe their experiences at Augusta National. True, it’s hard not to be happy at one of the world’s most iconic golf courses with unlimited resources and a near-perfect forecast for the week. But it’s more than that. ANGC has gone to great lengths to preserve a unique experience. No cellphones means no “selfies” being asked of the players. Patrons are truly focused on the golf. A fleet of volunteers and workers who annually descend upon Augusta from around the country are available to answer questions and ensure crowds are able to move about the grounds without significant hassle. England’s Aaron Rai walked off the 18th green following a practice round Tuesday. After signing a few autographs, he walked a few feet to greet several family members. He was among the patrons, all of whom respected his personal space. Not far away, Jake Knapp stood near the clubhouse casually talking to friends without interruption. “For us as players, it’s really an enjoyable experience, just how things are organized,” Scheffler said. “You’ve got the kids autograph area by the range. There’s no adults sneaking in there. Everybody’s afraid to break the rules. “Augusta’s put some rules in place that make this not only a special experience for us, but a special experience for the patrons as well.” There are six amateurs in the field this week, many of whom have been able to grab practice rounds with the world’s top professionals. Brandon Holtz, a 39-year-old real estate agent from Bloomington, Ill., qualified for his first Masters as the reigning U.S. Mid-Am Champion. It’s one of several qualification paths the Masters has opened, and Holtz has played practice rounds with Tommy Fleetwood and Jordan Spieth the past two days. He’ll play the first two rounds of the tournament paired with Bubba Watson and Nico Echavarria. “It’s a well-operated machine out here,” Holtz said. “Fans are great. Golf course obviously magnificent. The best by far golf course I’ve ever played.” It’s an all-encompassing vibe that generates a tradition that’s truly unlike any other. And we haven’t seen the first official tee shot yet. –Derek Harper, Field Level Media #Deadspin #Perfection #pretension #Masters #eyes #Augusta #National #rookieApr 6, 2026; Augusta, Georgia, USA; Patrons move around the grounds during a practice round for the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club. Mandatory Credit: Michael Madrid-Imagn Images

AUGUSTA, Ga. — Scottie Scheffler said this week that growing up as an American golfer, Augusta National is the place you always want to get to.

Having spent the better part of four decades with the Masters on my life bucket list — much less sports or specifically even golf — I’ve had at least one goal in common with the best player of his generation.

I’ve been extremely fortunate to cover more than a dozen Super Bowls, several major golf championships and countless events throughout my journalism career. But 2026 is the year I finally got the opportunity to cover the Masters.

And to say the Masters experience has thus far exceeded extremely lofty expectations would not be doing this place justice.

From the first greeting with a volunteer at the press gate to meeting Augusta National members, almost every interaction has been with a smile and every step on the impeccable grounds surreal. And something less tangible is the general vibe throughout the grounds.

It’s genuine.

Once a year, one of the most private places in the golf community opens its arms wide — and chock full of Southern charm — to the world. The Masters, with all of its traditions, historic buildings and green jackets, is anything but your father’s stuffy country club.

Club members roam the press building, offering to help in any way that they can. I’m guessing the member from Australia, a private equity professional, who struck up a conversation with myself and a colleague typically has better things to do.

The message starts from the top. Asked about the “spirit” at the Masters, AGNC chairman Fred S. Ridley said it goes back to the founding of the club.

“The real motivation behind starting the Masters Tournament — of course it was not called that at the beginning — but the impetus was really to serve the game of golf,” he said. “So we look at ourselves as servants of the game of golf.

“We want this experience to be the best that it can be for everyone who sets foot on the grounds.”

It’s not empty rhetoric for cameras and journalists gathered here from around the world. That mission is backed up and evident in every nook and cranny of the grounds.

Those grounds are expansive in a way television cameras cannot remotely do justice. And they’re expanding further with strategic land purchases and lengthened holes.

When you hear players talk about Augusta National being a difficult 18 holes to walk, they’re not whining. I walked the course to get a perspective of all 18 holes, and it’s a legitimate workout. The elevation changes and rolling hills throughout the property make for a solid cardio workout.

What really separates the Masters is the innate ability of the club to adapt to the times without sacrificing its rich traditions. Ridley referred to it as the tension between “respecting tradition and innovating.”


A few years ago, the club allowed the crew from Dude Perfect to play frisbee at the iconic “Amen Corner.” Ridley admitted it “may not have been the best idea,” but it also represents that forward-thinking mindset that keeps generation after generation flocking to Augusta every spring.

Next week, visitors will be able to stop by and play The Patch, a local municipal golf course that the ANGC carried a significant role in restoring in conjunction with Tiger Woods and the TRMW company. Why?

“We feel that one of our obligation contributing to our community. So that opens up a number of opportunities,” Ridley said. “We felt that there was an opportunity to take a wonderful piece of property and to transform it into something that was just really life-changing for many people in this community.”

Scheffler is one of numerous players who have used the word “enjoyable” to describe their experiences at Augusta National. True, it’s hard not to be happy at one of the world’s most iconic golf courses with unlimited resources and a near-perfect forecast for the week.

But it’s more than that. ANGC has gone to great lengths to preserve a unique experience.

No cellphones means no “selfies” being asked of the players. Patrons are truly focused on the golf. A fleet of volunteers and workers who annually descend upon Augusta from around the country are available to answer questions and ensure crowds are able to move about the grounds without significant hassle.

England’s Aaron Rai walked off the 18th green following a practice round Tuesday. After signing a few autographs, he walked a few feet to greet several family members. He was among the patrons, all of whom respected his personal space.

Not far away, Jake Knapp stood near the clubhouse casually talking to friends without interruption.

“For us as players, it’s really an enjoyable experience, just how things are organized,” Scheffler said. “You’ve got the kids autograph area by the range. There’s no adults sneaking in there. Everybody’s afraid to break the rules.

“Augusta’s put some rules in place that make this not only a special experience for us, but a special experience for the patrons as well.”

There are six amateurs in the field this week, many of whom have been able to grab practice rounds with the world’s top professionals.

Brandon Holtz, a 39-year-old real estate agent from Bloomington, Ill., qualified for his first Masters as the reigning U.S. Mid-Am Champion. It’s one of several qualification paths the Masters has opened, and Holtz has played practice rounds with Tommy Fleetwood and Jordan Spieth the past two days. He’ll play the first two rounds of the tournament paired with Bubba Watson and Nico Echavarria.

“It’s a well-operated machine out here,” Holtz said. “Fans are great. Golf course obviously magnificent. The best by far golf course I’ve ever played.”

It’s an all-encompassing vibe that generates a tradition that’s truly unlike any other.

And we haven’t seen the first official tee shot yet.

–Derek Harper, Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Perfection #pretension #Masters #eyes #Augusta #National #rookie

Sports news

Apr 6, 2026; Augusta, Georgia, USA; Patrons move around the grounds during a practice round for the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club. Mandatory Credit: Michael Madrid-Imagn Images

AUGUSTA, Ga. — Scottie Scheffler said this week that growing up as an American golfer, Augusta National is the place you always want to get to.

Having spent the better part of four decades with the Masters on my life bucket list — much less sports or specifically even golf — I’ve had at least one goal in common with the best player of his generation.

I’ve been extremely fortunate to cover more than a dozen Super Bowls, several major golf championships and countless events throughout my journalism career. But 2026 is the year I finally got the opportunity to cover the Masters.

And to say the Masters experience has thus far exceeded extremely lofty expectations would not be doing this place justice.

From the first greeting with a volunteer at the press gate to meeting Augusta National members, almost every interaction has been with a smile and every step on the impeccable grounds surreal. And something less tangible is the general vibe throughout the grounds.

It’s genuine.

Once a year, one of the most private places in the golf community opens its arms wide — and chock full of Southern charm — to the world. The Masters, with all of its traditions, historic buildings and green jackets, is anything but your father’s stuffy country club.

Club members roam the press building, offering to help in any way that they can. I’m guessing the member from Australia, a private equity professional, who struck up a conversation with myself and a colleague typically has better things to do.

The message starts from the top. Asked about the “spirit” at the Masters, AGNC chairman Fred S. Ridley said it goes back to the founding of the club.

“The real motivation behind starting the Masters Tournament — of course it was not called that at the beginning — but the impetus was really to serve the game of golf,” he said. “So we look at ourselves as servants of the game of golf.

“We want this experience to be the best that it can be for everyone who sets foot on the grounds.”

It’s not empty rhetoric for cameras and journalists gathered here from around the world. That mission is backed up and evident in every nook and cranny of the grounds.

Those grounds are expansive in a way television cameras cannot remotely do justice. And they’re expanding further with strategic land purchases and lengthened holes.

When you hear players talk about Augusta National being a difficult 18 holes to walk, they’re not whining. I walked the course to get a perspective of all 18 holes, and it’s a legitimate workout. The elevation changes and rolling hills throughout the property make for a solid cardio workout.

What really separates the Masters is the innate ability of the club to adapt to the times without sacrificing its rich traditions. Ridley referred to it as the tension between “respecting tradition and innovating.”

A few years ago, the club allowed the crew from Dude Perfect to play frisbee at the iconic “Amen Corner.” Ridley admitted it “may not have been the best idea,” but it also represents that forward-thinking mindset that keeps generation after generation flocking to Augusta every spring.

Next week, visitors will be able to stop by and play The Patch, a local municipal golf course that the ANGC carried a significant role in restoring in conjunction with Tiger Woods and the TRMW company. Why?

“We feel that one of our obligation contributing to our community. So that opens up a number of opportunities,” Ridley said. “We felt that there was an opportunity to take a wonderful piece of property and to transform it into something that was just really life-changing for many people in this community.”

Scheffler is one of numerous players who have used the word “enjoyable” to describe their experiences at Augusta National. True, it’s hard not to be happy at one of the world’s most iconic golf courses with unlimited resources and a near-perfect forecast for the week.

But it’s more than that. ANGC has gone to great lengths to preserve a unique experience.

No cellphones means no “selfies” being asked of the players. Patrons are truly focused on the golf. A fleet of volunteers and workers who annually descend upon Augusta from around the country are available to answer questions and ensure crowds are able to move about the grounds without significant hassle.

England’s Aaron Rai walked off the 18th green following a practice round Tuesday. After signing a few autographs, he walked a few feet to greet several family members. He was among the patrons, all of whom respected his personal space.

Not far away, Jake Knapp stood near the clubhouse casually talking to friends without interruption.

“For us as players, it’s really an enjoyable experience, just how things are organized,” Scheffler said. “You’ve got the kids autograph area by the range. There’s no adults sneaking in there. Everybody’s afraid to break the rules.

“Augusta’s put some rules in place that make this not only a special experience for us, but a special experience for the patrons as well.”

There are six amateurs in the field this week, many of whom have been able to grab practice rounds with the world’s top professionals.

Brandon Holtz, a 39-year-old real estate agent from Bloomington, Ill., qualified for his first Masters as the reigning U.S. Mid-Am Champion. It’s one of several qualification paths the Masters has opened, and Holtz has played practice rounds with Tommy Fleetwood and Jordan Spieth the past two days. He’ll play the first two rounds of the tournament paired with Bubba Watson and Nico Echavarria.

“It’s a well-operated machine out here,” Holtz said. “Fans are great. Golf course obviously magnificent. The best by far golf course I’ve ever played.”

It’s an all-encompassing vibe that generates a tradition that’s truly unlike any other.

And we haven’t seen the first official tee shot yet.

–Derek Harper, Field Level Media

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Deadspin | Larry Fitzgerald thanks all of Arizona: ‘You gave me a home’ Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrinee Larry Fitzgerald and his son Devin Fitzgerald unveil his bust during the Class of 2026 enshrinement ceremony at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio, on Aug. 8, 2026. One day after being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, longtime Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald paid for a full-page ad in the Arizona Republic to thank everyone who made a Minnesota native feel welcome in the state he calls home. After being selected by the Cardinals with the third overall pick in the 2004 NFL Draft, Fitzgerald spent all 17 years of his NFL career in Arizona. He caught 1,432 passes for 17,492 yards and 121 touchdowns while earning 11 trips to the Pro Bowl. Fitzgerald ranks second to Jerry Rice on the NFL’s all-time lists for receptions and receiving yards. He stands sixth in touchdown catches, trailing Rice, Randy Moss, Terrell Owens, Chris Carter and Marvin Harrison. Here’s the message Fitzgerald penned for his Arizona Republic ad: People have asked me countless times what it felt like to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The truth is, it was one of the greatest honors of my life. But this really isn’t a Hall of Fame story. It’s a thank-you letter. I arrived in Arizona as a 20-year-old kid who didn’t know a single person. I had no idea this desert would become the place that would shape me into the man I am today. The day I landed was the same day the nation learned Pat Tillman had lost his life. Pat is one of America’s great heroes. I stepped off the plane into a state where its people were carrying real grief, and something inside me grew quiet. I started paying attention. You learn quickly what loyalty looks like when it isn’t just a word. For the next 17 seasons, I quietly measured myself against the standard Pat Tillman set. I’m still not sure I ever lived up to it. Somewhere along the way, Arizona stopped being the place where I lived and became the place I was from. It happened through a thousand ordinary moments until one day, I realized this was simply home. Not because I was a Hall of Famer. Not because I was a wide receiver. Just because the people of this state allowed me to be Larry. You don’t fall in love with a place because of its stadiums. You fall in love on quiet mornings hiking Camelback Mountain. On crisp fall afternoons walking a golf course. During summers in Flagstaff and standing among the red rocks of Sedona that remind you just how small you are in the best possible way. When I stopped playing football, I walked away quietly. I’m known for my Irish goodbyes. Arizona even gave me that. Yet you kept showing up for me anyway, especially through the work of my foundation. Your support was never conditional. You never asked me to be anything other than myself, and somehow that was always enough. Arizona gave a kid from Minneapolis something he didn’t even know he was searching for. Belonging. And that sense of belonging changed me. After a while, you weren’t cheering for a wide receiver anymore, you were cheering for one of your own. So this isn’t really a story about 17 years in a Cardinals uniform or a bronze bust in Canton. It’s the story of a young man who was welcomed by a state that owed him nothing and gave him everything. Thank you, Arizona. Thank you for letting a kid from somewhere else become one of your own. Thank you for embracing not just the player, but the man. You gave me far more than a career. You gave me friendships that will last a lifetime. You gave me purpose beyond football. You gave me a place where my children will always know they belong. Most of all, you gave me a home. With love and gratitude, (signed) Larry Fitzgerald HOF 26 –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Larry #Fitzgerald #Arizona #gave #homePro Football Hall of Fame enshrinee Larry Fitzgerald and his son Devin Fitzgerald unveil his bust during the Class of 2026 enshrinement ceremony at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio, on Aug. 8, 2026.

One day after being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, longtime Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald paid for a full-page ad in the Arizona Republic to thank everyone who made a Minnesota native feel welcome in the state he calls home.

After being selected by the Cardinals with the third overall pick in the 2004 NFL Draft, Fitzgerald spent all 17 years of his NFL career in Arizona. He caught 1,432 passes for 17,492 yards and 121 touchdowns while earning 11 trips to the Pro Bowl.

Fitzgerald ranks second to Jerry Rice on the NFL’s all-time lists for receptions and receiving yards. He stands sixth in touchdown catches, trailing Rice, Randy Moss, Terrell Owens, Chris Carter and Marvin Harrison.

Here’s the message Fitzgerald penned for his Arizona Republic ad:

People have asked me countless times what it felt like to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

The truth is, it was one of the greatest honors of my life.

But this really isn’t a Hall of Fame story.

It’s a thank-you letter.

I arrived in Arizona as a 20-year-old kid who didn’t know a single person. I had no idea this desert would become the place that would shape me into the man I am today.

The day I landed was the same day the nation learned Pat Tillman had lost his life. Pat is one of America’s great heroes.

I stepped off the plane into a state where its people were carrying real grief, and something inside me grew quiet. I started paying attention.

You learn quickly what loyalty looks like when it isn’t just a word.

For the next 17 seasons, I quietly measured myself against the standard Pat Tillman set. I’m still not sure I ever lived up to it.

Somewhere along the way, Arizona stopped being the place where I lived and became the place I was from.

It happened through a thousand ordinary moments until one day, I realized this was simply home. Not because I was a Hall of Famer. Not because I was a wide receiver. Just because the people of this state allowed me to be Larry.

You don’t fall in love with a place because of its stadiums. You fall in love on quiet mornings hiking Camelback Mountain.

On crisp fall afternoons walking a golf course. During summers in Flagstaff and standing among the red rocks of Sedona that remind you just how small you are in the best possible way.


When I stopped playing football, I walked away quietly. I’m known for my Irish goodbyes. Arizona even gave me that. Yet you kept showing up for me anyway, especially through the work of my foundation. Your support was never conditional. You never asked me to be anything other than myself, and somehow that was always enough.

Arizona gave a kid from Minneapolis something he didn’t even know he was searching for.

Belonging.

And that sense of belonging changed me.

After a while, you weren’t cheering for a wide receiver anymore, you were cheering for one of your own.

So this isn’t really a story about 17 years in a Cardinals uniform or a bronze bust in Canton.

It’s the story of a young man who was welcomed by a state that owed him nothing and gave him everything.

Thank you, Arizona.

Thank you for letting a kid from somewhere else become one of your own.

Thank you for embracing not just the player, but the man.

You gave me far more than a career. You gave me friendships that will last a lifetime. You gave me purpose beyond football.

You gave me a place where my children will always know they belong.

Most of all, you gave me a home.

With love and gratitude,

(signed)

Larry Fitzgerald

HOF 26

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Larry #Fitzgerald #Arizona #gave #home">Deadspin | Larry Fitzgerald thanks all of Arizona: ‘You gave me a home’ Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrinee Larry Fitzgerald and his son Devin Fitzgerald unveil his bust during the Class of 2026 enshrinement ceremony at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio, on Aug. 8, 2026. One day after being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, longtime Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald paid for a full-page ad in the Arizona Republic to thank everyone who made a Minnesota native feel welcome in the state he calls home. After being selected by the Cardinals with the third overall pick in the 2004 NFL Draft, Fitzgerald spent all 17 years of his NFL career in Arizona. He caught 1,432 passes for 17,492 yards and 121 touchdowns while earning 11 trips to the Pro Bowl. Fitzgerald ranks second to Jerry Rice on the NFL’s all-time lists for receptions and receiving yards. He stands sixth in touchdown catches, trailing Rice, Randy Moss, Terrell Owens, Chris Carter and Marvin Harrison. Here’s the message Fitzgerald penned for his Arizona Republic ad: People have asked me countless times what it felt like to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The truth is, it was one of the greatest honors of my life. But this really isn’t a Hall of Fame story. It’s a thank-you letter. I arrived in Arizona as a 20-year-old kid who didn’t know a single person. I had no idea this desert would become the place that would shape me into the man I am today. The day I landed was the same day the nation learned Pat Tillman had lost his life. Pat is one of America’s great heroes. I stepped off the plane into a state where its people were carrying real grief, and something inside me grew quiet. I started paying attention. You learn quickly what loyalty looks like when it isn’t just a word. For the next 17 seasons, I quietly measured myself against the standard Pat Tillman set. I’m still not sure I ever lived up to it. Somewhere along the way, Arizona stopped being the place where I lived and became the place I was from. It happened through a thousand ordinary moments until one day, I realized this was simply home. Not because I was a Hall of Famer. Not because I was a wide receiver. Just because the people of this state allowed me to be Larry. You don’t fall in love with a place because of its stadiums. You fall in love on quiet mornings hiking Camelback Mountain. On crisp fall afternoons walking a golf course. During summers in Flagstaff and standing among the red rocks of Sedona that remind you just how small you are in the best possible way. When I stopped playing football, I walked away quietly. I’m known for my Irish goodbyes. Arizona even gave me that. Yet you kept showing up for me anyway, especially through the work of my foundation. Your support was never conditional. You never asked me to be anything other than myself, and somehow that was always enough. Arizona gave a kid from Minneapolis something he didn’t even know he was searching for. Belonging. And that sense of belonging changed me. After a while, you weren’t cheering for a wide receiver anymore, you were cheering for one of your own. So this isn’t really a story about 17 years in a Cardinals uniform or a bronze bust in Canton. It’s the story of a young man who was welcomed by a state that owed him nothing and gave him everything. Thank you, Arizona. Thank you for letting a kid from somewhere else become one of your own. Thank you for embracing not just the player, but the man. You gave me far more than a career. You gave me friendships that will last a lifetime. You gave me purpose beyond football. You gave me a place where my children will always know they belong. Most of all, you gave me a home. With love and gratitude, (signed) Larry Fitzgerald HOF 26 –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Larry #Fitzgerald #Arizona #gave #home

When I arrived to cover the Minnesota Vikings for the St. Paul Pioneer Press in 2000, it was clear I was dealing with a star-studded roster.

The team boasted future Pro Football Hall of Famers; wide receivers Cris Carter and Randy Moss and defensive tackle John Randle. Plus, there were a ton of other stars including quarterback Daunte Culpepper, center Matt Birk and running back Robert Smith. The Vikings were loaded with star power.

The talent around the team wasn’t relegated simply to the roster, however.

That summer I first laid my eyes on a 16-year-old high school junior named Larry Fitzgerald Jr. The son of a local media member and close friend of Vikings’ head coach Dennis Green, Little Fitzy was a ball boy during training camp and on game days. It turns out, Larry Fitzgerald Jr. is very likely the most famous former NFL ball boy in history.

On reporting date, fellow reporter Kevin Seifert pointed out Fitzgerald to me and said “that’s a bad man.” Seifert didn’t say that about any of the actual Vikings that day.

Fitzgerald was already known as the best Minnesota high school prospect in years and he was considered one of the best high school players in the country. Seifert told me the buzz was that the kid was, no doubt, headed to the NFL in a half decade or so. Seifert was on the money. I’m not sure the Hall of Fame was mentioned or not.

But this weekend of course, that’s exactly where Little Fitzy is headed. He will be enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, on Saturday as a first-ballot Hall of Famer.

Fitzgerald will be remembered as one of the best and most productive wide receivers in league history after an incredible 17-season career with the Arizona Cardinals.

I have a ton of memories of being around Fitzgerald, but there’s one that stands out among them all.

One day after training camp, a nameless Vikings’ wide receiver camp body was getting extra work on a JUGS machine, catching balls. He was being tutored by Fitzgerald, who was showing this player how to properly approach the incoming ball. This was a child instructing a grown man an NFL team deemed good enough to attend training camp.

Larry Fitzgerald Jr. was special even back then.

In addition to his incredible natural football ability, Larry Fitzgerald Jr. stood out for his politeness and good nature. You could tell he was a good kid from the first time you met him.

There was no I’m-going-to-be-a-star attitude. He was genuine and he worked his tail off with the rest of the ball boys. There was no entitlement. It was as if he was using his time around an NFL camp as an internship for his future. He passed with flying colors.

I’ve always cherished following his career from his days at Pittsburgh in college to his days of dominating the NFL and I’ve enjoyed running into him over the years now and again.

Enjoy Canton, Little Fitzy, you’ve earned it.

#Larry #Fitzgeralds #Hall #Fame #induction #years #making">Larry Fitzgerald’s Hall of Fame induction is 25 years in the making When I arrived to cover the Minnesota Vikings for the St. Paul Pioneer Press in 2000, it was clear I was dealing with a star-studded roster.The team boasted future Pro Football Hall of Famers; wide receivers Cris Carter and Randy Moss and defensive tackle John Randle. Plus, there were a ton of other stars including quarterback Daunte Culpepper, center Matt Birk and running back Robert Smith. The Vikings were loaded with star power.The talent around the team wasn’t relegated simply to the roster, however.That summer I first laid my eyes on a 16-year-old high school junior named Larry Fitzgerald Jr. The son of a local media member and close friend of Vikings’ head coach Dennis Green, Little Fitzy was a ball boy during training camp and on game days. It turns out, Larry Fitzgerald Jr. is very likely the most famous former NFL ball boy in history.On reporting date, fellow reporter Kevin Seifert pointed out Fitzgerald to me and said “that’s a bad man.” Seifert didn’t say that about any of the actual Vikings that day.Fitzgerald was already known as the best Minnesota high school prospect in years and he was considered one of the best high school players in the country. Seifert told me the buzz was that the kid was, no doubt, headed to the NFL in a half decade or so. Seifert was on the money. I’m not sure the Hall of Fame was mentioned or not.But this weekend of course, that’s exactly where Little Fitzy is headed. He will be enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, on Saturday as a first-ballot Hall of Famer.Fitzgerald will be remembered as one of the best and most productive wide receivers in league history after an incredible 17-season career with the Arizona Cardinals.I have a ton of memories of being around Fitzgerald, but there’s one that stands out among them all.One day after training camp, a nameless Vikings’ wide receiver camp body was getting extra work on a JUGS machine, catching balls. He was being tutored by Fitzgerald, who was showing this player how to properly approach the incoming ball. This was a child instructing a grown man an NFL team deemed good enough to attend training camp.Larry Fitzgerald Jr. was special even back then.In addition to his incredible natural football ability, Larry Fitzgerald Jr. stood out for his politeness and good nature. You could tell he was a good kid from the first time you met him.There was no I’m-going-to-be-a-star attitude. He was genuine and he worked his tail off with the rest of the ball boys. There was no entitlement. It was as if he was using his time around an NFL camp as an internship for his future. He passed with flying colors.I’ve always cherished following his career from his days at Pittsburgh in college to his days of dominating the NFL and I’ve enjoyed running into him over the years now and again.Enjoy Canton, Little Fitzy, you’ve earned it. #Larry #Fitzgeralds #Hall #Fame #induction #years #making

Follow Sportstar for extensive coverage of the tenth edition of the TNPL, from live scores and match reports to exclusive analysis and features.

TOSS

Tiruppur Tamizhans won the toss and chose to bowl first.

PLAYING XIs

Nellai Royal Kings: Athish SR(w), D Santhosh Kumar, Ajitesh Guruswamy, U Mukilesh, Rithik Easwaran, Sonu Yadav(c), Muhammed Adnan Khan, Ramalingam Rohit, Emmanuel Cherian, NS Harish, Rocky Bhasker

Tiruppur Tamizhans: Tushar Raheja(w), Amit Sathvik, Pradosh Ranjan Paul, Mohamed Ali, Uthirasamy Sasidev, Ravisrinivasan Sai Kishore(c), M Mathivannan, S Mohan Prasath, R Silambarasan, Esakkimuthu A, T Natarajan

Published on Aug 09, 2026

#TNPL #Live #Allround #batting #display #propels #Nellai #Royal #Kings">TNPL 2026 Live: All-round batting display propels Nellai Royal Kings to 206/8 Follow Sportstar for extensive coverage of the tenth edition of the TNPL, from live scores and match reports to exclusive analysis and features.TOSSTiruppur Tamizhans won the toss and chose to bowl first.PLAYING XIsNellai Royal Kings: Athish SR(w), D Santhosh Kumar, Ajitesh Guruswamy, U Mukilesh, Rithik Easwaran, Sonu Yadav(c), Muhammed Adnan Khan, Ramalingam Rohit, Emmanuel Cherian, NS Harish, Rocky BhaskerTiruppur Tamizhans: Tushar Raheja(w), Amit Sathvik, Pradosh Ranjan Paul, Mohamed Ali, Uthirasamy Sasidev, Ravisrinivasan Sai Kishore(c), M Mathivannan, S Mohan Prasath, R Silambarasan, Esakkimuthu A, T NatarajanPublished on Aug 09, 2026 #TNPL #Live #Allround #batting #display #propels #Nellai #Royal #Kings

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