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The Athens Banner-Herald has a special look at the growing phenomenon that is Masters winner Bubba Watson. The Georgia product has become a fan favorite short of only Tiger Woods at some PGA events this season, despite having a tough series of finishes after his win at Augusta, according to rules official Mark Russell:
“There is no doubt. Bubba is one of the most popular players on the tour with golf fans. He is self-taught. I have heard that he has never had a lesson in his life. Golf fans can really relate to a player like that. Bubba resonates with the man in the street.”
Watson has been in high demand since the Masters win, but it hasn't translated to tournament wins. Still, he stands to earn somewhere between $4.5-$5 million this year in winnings alone, and as the Banner-Herald points out, cries of "Bubba" are routinely heard on courses across the country.
Watson will be a part of Davis Love III's Team USA in the Ryder Cup this weekend in Chicago.