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In this Feb. 1, 2012, file photo, golfer Bubba Watson drives off in the General Lee after playing in the pro-am at the Phoenix Open golf tournament in Scottsdale, Ariz.Rob Schumacher/The Associated Press

Bubba Watson says he's painting over the Confederate flag on his car made popular in "The Dukes of Hazzard" television series.

The two-time Masters champ said Friday he'll replace it with the U.S. flag on the roof of the "General Lee 01."

Confederate symbols have been the focus of debate since nine people were killed June 17 at an African-American church in Charleston, S.C. Authorities say the accused gunman had posed in photographs with the Confederate battle flag.

Watson said after his round at The Greenbrier Classic in West Virginia that his decision "was the right gesture for me to do." He also said the American flag sends a statement that everyone is "created equal."

Watson paid $121,000 (U.S.) for the car at a January 2012 auction.

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