“I am not the DJ whisperer,” Wayne Gretzky once admitted being ‘advisor’ to golf star Dustin Johnson rather than being labeled as ‘whisperer’
Wayne Gretzky claims to be an advisor, relative, and friend to golf star Dustin Johnson rather than being called his “whisperer”.
Wayne Gretzky and Dustin Johnson [Image Credit: Golf Magazine]
Wayne Gretzky who was claimed to be a “DJ whisperer” stated that he’d rather be called Dustin Johnson’s “grandfather, a father-in-law, a big brother.” Gretzky admitted that there were a few times when he advised him but that can never be labeled as a “whisperer”, rather, “We’re friends.”
Gretzky, known for his legendary career in NHL met golf star Dustin Johnson in 2012 at a charity event. Gretzky and his family often play on golf courses with a 10-handicapper. They participated in popular events at AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, and Sherwood Country Club in California. Even recently, his wife Janet Jones won her 4th title at the Showcase golf exhibition.
Gretzky stated that he and DJ usually talk about the family, sports, scheduling, etc. He’s never been a “guru” to Johnson but more like his own son. The duo especially came close after his eldest daughter Paulina Gretzky started dating Johnson. They later got married and welcomed two kids into the family.
Talking about Paulina and DJ’s relationship, Janet had a huge part to play in it. She not only played the role of matchmaking but also encouraged and supported the duo to take critical life decisions. Now the happily married couple with their sons River and Tatum, the duo is seen going on several vacations and being out in the spotlight.
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Dustin Johnson credits Wayne Gretzky for his former World No.1 spot
Looking back at Wayne Gretzky and Dustin Johnson’s relationship, DJ praised the NHL legend stating that having his support has meant the world to him. Only getting to “spend a lot of time with him has been one of the best things ever.” Not only does the duo enjoy spending time in each other’s company but also love to play golf on the greens.
Gretzky being capable of holding himself strong has proved to be an amazing partner for DJ in charity or celebrity golf events. Gretzky also pointed out how Johnson was already listed as a Top 10 golfer even before he met him. Gretzky, known for his humble nature commented that he himself is “not a golfer by any means” and has never “given him (Dustin Johnson) a lesson plan”.
Though from time to time, Gretzky has surely encouraged Johnson in professional pursuits. DJ credited Gretzky after acquiring the No. 1 spot and also for his terrific 2020 Masters performance. The 4x Stanley Cup winner also had a huge role to play during DJ’s crushing 2015 U.S. Open defeat. He missed a 12-ft. 72nd hole putt, plus a 3-ft. playoff miss to Jordan Spieth.
During that time, Wayne Gretzky advised Dustin Johnson “to get out of there” and give himself 10 minutes time prior to facing the media. He said that “it would be the greatest 10 minutes he ever did.” Gretzky further said that DJ spent his next 21 days playing golf with his buddies despite his last night’s defeat.
“The Great One” admitted that if he were to lose in Game 7 of a Stanley Cup final, “I promise you I wouldn’t be playing pickup hockey with my buddies the next three weeks”. The duo further strengthened their relationship as they share a similar pace in life including both private and professional affairs.
DJ labeled meeting Gretzky as an “awesome” experience, something he’ll “never forget because he means so much to me.” Hopefully, fans will see more of this duo’s relationship and fun times further in the future as they strengthen the bonds with love, trust, and friendship.
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Kaushani Chatterjee
(2158 Articles Published)