What is the Masters?
The Masters Tournament, commonly referred to simply as The Masters, is one of the four major championships in professional golf, alongside the PGA Championship, the U.S. Open, and The Open Championship (often referred to as the British Open). It is held annually at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia, United States.
Founded by golfing legend Bobby Jones and investment banker Clifford Roberts, The Masters has been played since 1934. It is unique among the major championships for several reasons:
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Tradition: The Masters is steeped in tradition and boasts a rich history that spans nearly a century. From the iconic green jacket awarded to the winner to the ceremonial opening tee shot on the first morning, The Masters is known for its reverence for tradition and its timeless elegance.
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Augusta National Golf Club: The tournament takes place at Augusta National Golf Club, one of the most prestigious and exclusive golf courses in the world. Known for its lush fairways, pristine greens, and challenging layout, Augusta National provides a picturesque backdrop for the tournament.
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Invitation Only: Unlike other major championships, The Masters is an invitation-only event. While it includes many of the world's top-ranked players, invitations are also extended to amateur golfers, past champions, and special invitees, adding to the tournament's unique charm.
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Amen Corner: One of the most famous features of Augusta National is Amen Corner, a series of three challenging holes—numbers 11, 12, and 13—that have become synonymous with drama and excitement. The swirling winds and treacherous water hazards make Amen Corner a pivotal stretch of holes that can often determine the outcome of the tournament.
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The Green Jacket: Perhaps the most iconic symbol of The Masters is the green jacket awarded to the winner. Since 1949, the champion has been presented with a green jacket, which they are allowed to keep for one year before returning it to the club. Past champions are also permitted to wear their green jackets whenever they visit Augusta National, further adding to the mystique of the tournament.
The Masters is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious events in golf and attracts a global audience of millions each year. Its combination of tradition, history, and unparalleled beauty has made it a cherished institution in the world of sports.
