The Masters Tournament is one of the four major championships in professional golf, played each April at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia, United States. First held in 1934, it is the only major contested at the same venue every year and is known for its traditions, including the green jacket awarded to the champion.
What the tournament is
The Masters is an invitational event with a smaller field than the other majors. Invitations are extended to past champions, recent major winners, leading players in the world rankings and a number of amateurs. Past champions earn a lifetime invitation to compete.
It was founded by amateur great Bobby Jones and businessman Clifford Roberts, and the course was designed by Jones together with architect Alister MacKenzie.
Format and structure
The tournament is played over 72 holes across four days of stroke play, with a cut reducing the field after the second round.
- Four rounds of 18 holes, Thursday through Sunday
- A 36-hole cut narrows the field for the weekend
- The lowest total score over 72 holes wins
- A sudden-death play-off settles a tie for the lead
The course is famous for its closing stretch, including the section around the 11th, 12th and 13th holes known as Amen Corner.
History and traditions
Horton Smith won the first tournament in 1934. The green jacket has been presented to the champion since 1949, with the reigning winner helping the new champion into the jacket. Other traditions include the Champions Dinner, hosted by the defending winner, and the ceremonial opening tee shots struck by honorary starters.
The Masters has been part of the modern professional Grand Slam alongside the U.S. Open, The Open Championship and the PGA Championship.
Famous champions
Jack Nicklaus holds the record with six Masters titles, including a celebrated win in 1986 at the age of 46. Tiger Woods has won five times, beginning with a record-setting victory in 1997 and including an emotional comeback win in 2019.
Other multiple winners include Arnold Palmer, who won four times and helped popularise the event, and Gary Player, the first international champion. The tournament has produced numerous memorable finishes on its closing holes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Masters Tournament held?
It is played every year at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia, United States, the only major held at the same venue annually.
When was the first Masters held?
The first Masters Tournament was held in 1934, won by Horton Smith.
What does the Masters champion receive?
The champion is awarded a green jacket, a tradition dating to 1949, along with the trophy and prize money.
Who has won the most Masters titles?
Jack Nicklaus holds the record with six Masters victories.
How many rounds is the Masters?
The tournament is 72 holes of stroke play over four days, with a cut after the second round.
What is Amen Corner?
Amen Corner is the nickname for the stretch around the 11th, 12th and 13th holes at Augusta National, often decisive in the outcome.
Is the Masters one of golf's majors?
Yes. It is one of the four men's major championships, alongside the U.S. Open, The Open Championship and the PGA Championship.