Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson Named Honorary Starters For 2026 Masters
Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson Named Honorary Starters For 2026 Masters...
Golf legends Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson will serve as honorary starters at the 2026 Masters Tournament, Augusta National announced Thursday. The move marks a historic moment for the sport, pairing two of its most iconic rivals in the ceremonial role for the first time.
The announcement comes as the 2026 Masters begins today at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia. Woods, 50, and Mickelson, 55, join past honorary starters like Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player, continuing a tradition dating back to 1963.
Fans and analysts are calling the pairing a fitting tribute to the duo's legendary rivalry, which defined golf for over two decades. Woods and Mickelson have combined for 121 PGA Tour wins and 21 major championships, including six Masters titles between them.
The honorary starter role involves hitting the tournament's opening tee shots before the first round. Social media erupted with reactions, with many calling it "the perfect send-off" for two of golf's greatest players.
Augusta National Chairman Fred Ridley said the club wanted to honor their "extraordinary contributions" to the game. Both players have hinted at reducing their competitive schedules, making the 2026 appearance potentially symbolic.
The Masters remains one of the most-watched sporting events in the U.S., drawing an average of 10.8 million viewers in 2025. Today's ceremonial tee shots will air live on ESPN at 7:50 AM ET, with heightened interest expected.
Woods last won the Masters in 2019, completing one of sports' greatest comebacks. Mickelson became the oldest major champion in history when he won the 2021 PGA Championship at age 50. Their simultaneous recognition underscores their shared impact on golf's modern era.
Ticket holders on-site Thursday morning are gathering early near the first tee for the historic moment. The 2026 Masters field includes defending champion Scottie Scheffler and rising stars like Ludvig Ã…berg and Tom Kim.
