Defending Masters champion Scottie Scheffler has spoken out about the controversy surrounding his menu choices for the upcoming Champions Dinner.
The Texan-inspired selection has sparked debate since its announcement last month.
Some critics have questioned whether dishes like cheeseburger sliders, chilli, steak and meatballs are sophisticated enough for the prestigious event.
Others have praised the menu, with golfer-turned-influencer Paige Spiranac giving it a "10/10" rating.
Now, the golfer has defended his selections, explaining they reflect personal nostalgia and family connections rather than culinary extravagance.
The dinner is scheduled to take place on Tuesday evening ahead of the tournament.
The menu draws inspiration from Scheffler's childhood and family traditions.
"I mean, I really love the appetisers," Scheffler explained during his champion's press conference.
The cheeseburger sliders will be served "Scottie style" - exactly how the 28-year-old prefers them.
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His father's meatballs feature prominently as a starter, highlighting the personal connection to the menu.
The chilli recipe comes from his coach Randy Smith, whom Scheffler credits with making "the best chilli."
Ribeye steak and red fish will be served as main courses, accompanied by tequila and bourbon.
Scheffler previously chose similarly nostalgic dishes when hosting the dinner after his 2022 Masters victory.
The £84 ($108) per plate price tag has become another talking point surrounding Scheffler's menu choices.
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This represents the lowest cost ever for a Champions Dinner at the prestigious tournament, according to a study from Sportsbook Review.
By comparison, Hideki Matsuyama's 2021 dinner came with a significantly higher price of £171 ($220) per plate.
Some critics have suggested the menu is overpriced considering the casual nature of the food offerings.
Despite the criticism, however, Scheffler remains confident about his selections for the evening.
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"It should be a fun night, fun meal, and very excited about being able to host a Champion's Dinner again," he said.
"Very excited to see how it's prepared and what the chefs at Augusta pull off this year.
"It's my favourite foods, haven't quite changed too much but there's a little bit, I would say, more kind of nostalgic stuff."
The Champions Dinner takes place two nights before the tournament begins, with all green jacket owners invited to attend.
Scheffler is hosting for the second time after winning the coveted green jacket in 2022.
Despite his status as defending champion, the American has yet to secure a win in the six tournaments he's competed in this season.
A freak injury to his hand, which occurred while preparing ravioli, kept him sidelined for some time.
Nevertheless, he remains one of the favourites for the title when play begins on Thursday, April 10.
Find Out More...
The Texan-inspired selection has sparked debate since its announcement last month.
Some critics have questioned whether dishes like cheeseburger sliders, chilli, steak and meatballs are sophisticated enough for the prestigious event.
Others have praised the menu, with golfer-turned-influencer Paige Spiranac giving it a "10/10" rating.
Now, the golfer has defended his selections, explaining they reflect personal nostalgia and family connections rather than culinary extravagance.
The dinner is scheduled to take place on Tuesday evening ahead of the tournament.
The menu draws inspiration from Scheffler's childhood and family traditions.
"I mean, I really love the appetisers," Scheffler explained during his champion's press conference.
The cheeseburger sliders will be served "Scottie style" - exactly how the 28-year-old prefers them.
JUST IN: Pep Guardiola lets rip at Man United fans after vile chants about Phil Foden's mum - 'Lack of class'
His father's meatballs feature prominently as a starter, highlighting the personal connection to the menu.
The chilli recipe comes from his coach Randy Smith, whom Scheffler credits with making "the best chilli."
Ribeye steak and red fish will be served as main courses, accompanied by tequila and bourbon.
Scheffler previously chose similarly nostalgic dishes when hosting the dinner after his 2022 Masters victory.
The £84 ($108) per plate price tag has become another talking point surrounding Scheffler's menu choices.
READ MORE: Novak Djokovic reveals new coach after admitting he 'has no idea' where Andy Murray is
This represents the lowest cost ever for a Champions Dinner at the prestigious tournament, according to a study from Sportsbook Review.
By comparison, Hideki Matsuyama's 2021 dinner came with a significantly higher price of £171 ($220) per plate.
Some critics have suggested the menu is overpriced considering the casual nature of the food offerings.
Despite the criticism, however, Scheffler remains confident about his selections for the evening.
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"It should be a fun night, fun meal, and very excited about being able to host a Champion's Dinner again," he said.
"Very excited to see how it's prepared and what the chefs at Augusta pull off this year.
"It's my favourite foods, haven't quite changed too much but there's a little bit, I would say, more kind of nostalgic stuff."
The Champions Dinner takes place two nights before the tournament begins, with all green jacket owners invited to attend.
Scheffler is hosting for the second time after winning the coveted green jacket in 2022.
Despite his status as defending champion, the American has yet to secure a win in the six tournaments he's competed in this season.
A freak injury to his hand, which occurred while preparing ravioli, kept him sidelined for some time.
Nevertheless, he remains one of the favourites for the title when play begins on Thursday, April 10.
Find Out More...