Unusual Facts About the Masters Tournament

Masters Tournament

Here are some fried facts (fun, quirky, and lesser-known tidbits) about the Masters Tournament, one of golf's most prestigious events:

1. The Green Jacket’s Dirty Secret

The iconic green jacket awarded to the winner is meant to stay at Augusta National Golf Club. If a champion takes it home, they must return it the next year—though some, like Gary Player, have 'forgotten' to bring it back.

2. Pimento Cheese Sandwiches Are a Steal

Despite the Masters' elite reputation, its concession prices are famously low. A pimento cheese sandwich (a fan favorite) costs just $1.50—unchanged for years due to Augusta’s refusal to prioritize profits over tradition.

3. No Women Allowed… Until 2012

Augusta National didn’t admit its first female members until 2012—former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and financier Darla Moore.

4. The Crow’s Nest is a Cheap Sleep for Amateurs

Amateur players who qualify can stay in the Crow’s Nest, a cozy, no-frills dormitory above the clubhouse—for free! Past residents include Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson.

5. The Eisenhower Tree Was a President’s Nemesis

A famous loblolly pine on the 17th hole, known as the 'Eisenhower Tree,' annoyed President Dwight D. Eisenhower (a Augusta member) so much that he once proposed cutting it down. The club refused—though the tree was eventually removed in 2014 after ice damage.

6. The Champions Dinner is a Winner’s Choice

The defending champion picks the menu for the Champions Dinner, leading to some wild choices:

Tiger Woods (1998, 2002, 2020) – Cheeseburgers, milkshakes, and sushi

Sergio García (2018) – A Spanish feast including Arroz con Pollo

Bubba Watson (2015) – A Caesar salad with grilled chicken… but no dressing (he forgot to order it).

7. No Phones Allowed (Seriously)

Augusta National bans cell phones for spectators—even during practice rounds. If you’re caught with one, you could be kicked out.

8. The Fake Bird Sounds

Some TV viewers swear they hear birds chirping during broadcasts—but rumors suggest Augusta pumps in artificial bird sounds to enhance the serene atmosphere.

9. The Par-3 Contest Curse

No winner of the Par-3 Contest (held on Wednesday) has ever gone on to win the Masters that same year. Some players intentionally try to lose to avoid the jinx.

10. The Most Expensive Ticket in Golf

Getting a Masters badge is near impossible—they’re passed down through generations. On the resale market, a single-day ticket can cost thousands, with full-week badges reaching $10,000 .

Bonus: The Secret Underground Tunnel

Players use a hidden tunnel beneath the clubhouse to get from the practice range to the first tee—keeping the pristine course free of distractions.

The Masters is full of quirky traditions, legends, and exclusivity—making it one of the most fascinating events in sports! Who’s your pick to win this year? 🏌️♂️⛳

Unusual Facts About the Masters Tournament

Report Page