Masters Honorary Starters Tradition Returns With Golf Legends
Masters Honorary Starters Tradition Returns With Golf Legends...
The Masters Tournament's honorary starters tradition resumed Thursday morning at Augusta National, with golf legends Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, and Tom Watson teeing off to officially open the 2026 event. The ceremonial first shots mark the continuation of a 62-year tradition that was briefly interrupted by weather delays earlier in the week.
Thousands of patrons gathered around the first tee at 7:40 AM ET to witness the iconic moment, which signals the true beginning of Masters week for many golf fans. The 86-year-old Player, 86-year-old Nicklaus, and 76-year-old Watson received standing ovations as they hit their drives under sunny Georgia skies.
This year's ceremony holds special significance as it marks the 40th anniversary of Nicklaus' record sixth Masters victory in 1986. Tournament chairman Fred Ridley called the starters "living connections to the history of this event" during brief remarks before the shots.
The honorary starter tradition dates back to 1963 when Jock Hutchison and Fred McLeod first performed the duty. Recent years have seen the ceremony evolve, with Player becoming the first international starter in 2012 and Watson joining in 2024.
Social media erupted with reactions to the emotional moment, particularly focused on Nicklaus' powerful drive that nearly reached the fairway. ESPN's live broadcast of the ceremony drew record streaming numbers, according to network executives.
The starters' appearance comes as Augusta National implements several changes for 2026, including lengthened holes and modified gallery areas. Tournament play begins Thursday morning with featured groups including defending champion Scottie Scheffler and rising star Ludvig Åberg.
Golf historians note the honorary starters represent a combined 11 Masters victories and 34 major championships. Their continued participation maintains a vital link between golf's past and present at the sport's most tradition-rich event.
Augusta National members confirmed the trio will return for the 2027 ceremony, ensuring the beloved tradition continues. The club also announced plans to honor the starters with a new exhibit in the Masters Museum opening next year.
