Meaning: This quote by Stuart Appleby, an Australian professional golfer, reflects on his humble beginnings and the influence of watching Greg Norman, another renowned Australian golfer, on television. The quote highlights the contrast between the rural environment in which Appleby grew up and the glamorous world of professional golf that he aspired to be a part of. Through this quote, Appleby acknowledges the disparity between his own background and the elite world of professional sports, while also expressing his admiration for Norman and the impact of his televised performances on a young, aspiring golfer.

Stuart Appleby's words convey a sense of distance and awe as he recalls his early experiences watching Greg Norman on television. The phrase "I was from the bush" suggests that Appleby came from a rural or remote area, which is often referred to as "the bush" in Australian slang. This indicates that he did not come from a privileged or urban background, but rather from a more modest and perhaps isolated environment. Despite the physical and cultural distance, Appleby was able to witness Norman's golfing prowess through the medium of television, which allowed him to glimpse a world that seemed distant and unattainable from his own vantage point.

The mention of "watching Greg Norman on TV" underscores the impact of media representation and the power of televised sports in shaping the dreams and aspirations of young athletes. For Appleby, Norman's appearances on television provided a window into a world of professional golf that was vastly different from his own reality. The quote encapsulates the transformative potential of media and the way in which it can bridge geographical and social gaps, inspiring individuals like Appleby to pursue their own ambitions despite the apparent disparities.

The phrase "but it was a world away" encapsulates the sense of awe and reverence that Appleby felt towards the world of professional golf represented by Greg Norman. This world, with its glitz, glamour, and elite status, seemed distant and unattainable to a young boy from the bush. The quote captures the stark contrast between Appleby's origins and the larger-than-life image of professional athletes, emphasizing the profound impact of seeing someone from a similar background excel in a prestigious sport.

Stuart Appleby's reference to Greg Norman, a legendary figure in Australian golf, serves to highlight the influence of role models and the power of representation in sports. Norman's success on the international stage not only inspired a generation of Australian golfers but also demonstrated that individuals from diverse backgrounds could achieve greatness in the world of professional sports. Appleby's acknowledgment of Norman's impact on his own journey reflects the importance of visibility and representation in shaping the aspirations and ambitions of young athletes.

In conclusion, Stuart Appleby's quote encapsulates the awe, admiration, and sense of distance that he felt as a young boy from the bush watching Greg Norman on television. It speaks to the transformative power of media representation, the influence of role models, and the impact of seeing someone from a similar background excel in a prestigious sport. Through his words, Appleby acknowledges the disparity between his own humble beginnings and the elite world of professional golf, while also recognizing the profound influence of Norman's televised performances on his own aspirations.