Friday's Masters Notes

Amateur moment
U.S. Amateur runner-up Michael Thompson called a penalty on himself when his ball moved on the 15th green Friday.

Playing with two-time Masters Champion Ben Crenshaw, Thompson called over an official after he had addressed the putt and the ball moved slightly. He missed his par putt, finishing with a bogey six, shot 78 for 151 and missed the 36-hole cut.

"It was an unfortunate thing, but I'm sure it's happened many times before," Thompson said. "I did ground my club, but there's nothing about that. It clearly moved and I had to call it.

"It's part of any game, you have to follow the rules. You just have to do it."


Marksaeng Withdraws
Thailand's Prayad Marksaeng first Masters appearance was a brief one. He was forced to withdraw after nine holes due to back trouble.

Relaxing with friends after his shortened round, Marksaeng was smiling and said he was fine, but his back would not allow him to play any further this week,

He recorded a six-over-par 42 on the front nine after an 82 on Thursday.


Similar Snedeker
Two-time Masters Champion Tom Watson had two days to play with Brandt Snedeker, and while he came away impressed with his talent and his spot among the 36- hole leaders, he was also impressed with seeing a young version of himself.

"We play quickly out there, make quick decisions, and just hit the ball," said Watson. "That's not the only way to play, but that's certainly the way I like to play and Brandt is the same way. It's very similar and very fun to watch. He certainly has a chance to win."

As for his own game, Watson said he was looking forward to returning in 2009, but knows the limitations of age.

"I forgot to move my mark today and that cost me two shots and after hitting the wrong ball last year, that says I'm getting a little long in the tooth," Watson said.


White Knight
Gary Player completed the second round of his 51st Masters dressed in white from head to toe. Player, 72, became known as the Black Knight for his dark attire, but went in an opposite direction Friday.

He was dressed in a white hat, white turtleneck, white pants and shoes. Player was greeted with a sustained standing ovation when he came up the 18th hole.

"It was great to be out here today," Player said. "I'm so pleased to be out here, fit and strong, and I'm also so pleased that Trevor (Immelman) and the South African guys are doing well. They are very special to me."

Player said he would have considered not returning as an active player in 2009 if he had not broken 80 on Friday, but shot a 78 and will return next year.