Sports Correspondent
March 19, 2025
Augusta, Georgia — The 89th edition of the Masters Tournament is scheduled to take place from April 10 to April 13, 2025, at the prestigious Augusta National Golf Club. As the first major championship of the year, the Masters annually attracts the world’s top golfers and a global audience eager to witness the competition for the coveted Green Jacket.
Tournament Overview
Established in 1934, the Masters Tournament has grown into one of golf’s most esteemed events. Held annually at Augusta National, the tournament is renowned for its rich traditions, including the Champions Dinner, the ceremonial tee shots by past champions, and the awarding of the Green Jacket to the winner. The 2025 tournament marks the 89th iteration of this historic event.
Key Dates and Schedule
- April 7-9, 2025: Practice Rounds
- April 10-13, 2025: Tournament Rounds
Note: Gates open at 8:00 AM daily during practice rounds and at 7:00 AM during tournament rounds.
Field of Competitors
The Masters traditionally features a select field of approximately 90-100 players, comprising past champions, recent major winners, top finishers from the previous year’s Masters, leading players from the Official World Golf Ranking, and winners of select amateur championships. As of now, notable qualifiers include:
- Scottie Scheffler: Defending Masters champion
- Rory McIlroy: 2025 PLAYERS Championship winner
- Jon Rahm: 2024 U.S. Open champion
- Collin Morikawa: 2024 Open Championship winner
- Hideki Matsuyama: 2021 Masters champion
For a comprehensive list of qualifiers, visit the official Masters website.
Ticketing and Attendance
Tickets for the Masters are highly sought after and are primarily distributed through a lottery system conducted by Augusta National. Applicants were required to apply for the 2025 tournament during the application window in June 2024. Successful applicants have been notified, and tickets are non-transferable. While secondary markets may offer tickets, patrons are advised to exercise caution, as Augusta National enforces strict policies against unauthorized ticket sales.
Course Preparations
Augusta National is renowned for its immaculate course conditions, and the grounds crew works year-round to ensure the course is in pristine shape for the tournament. In recent years, subtle changes have been made to enhance both player experience and spectator viewing, though the club traditionally keeps specific alterations confidential until the tournament week.
Champions Dinner
A cherished tradition of the Masters is the Champions Dinner, held on the Tuesday evening of tournament week. Hosted by the defending champion, this exclusive gathering includes past Masters winners. Scottie Scheffler, the 2024 champion, has curated a menu featuring:
- Appetizer: Cheeseburger sliders
- Starter: Tortilla soup
- Main Course: Ribeye steak or blackened redfish
- Dessert: Warm chocolate chip skillet cookie
This menu reflects Scheffler’s personal favorites and adds a unique touch to the Masters tradition.
Broadcast and Coverage
The Masters Tournament will be broadcast globally, with extensive coverage across television and digital platforms. In the United States, CBS and ESPN will provide live coverage, while international viewers can tune in through various sports networks. Additionally, the Masters’ official website and app will offer live streaming, real-time scoring, and exclusive content throughout the tournament week.
Local Impact and Visitor Information
The Masters significantly boosts the local economy in Augusta, Georgia, attracting thousands of visitors annually. Local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and retailers, anticipate increased patronage during the tournament week. Visitors are encouraged to explore Augusta’s attractions, such as the Riverwalk, the Augusta Museum of History, and the Morris Museum of Art, to enrich their experience.
Health and Safety Measures
Augusta National prioritizes the health and safety of all attendees. Patrons are advised to review the latest guidelines and protocols on the official Masters website before attending the event.
Conclusion
The 2025 Masters Tournament promises to deliver exceptional golf, time-honored traditions, and memorable moments. As players prepare to compete for the Green Jacket, fans worldwide eagerly await the drama and excitement that define this prestigious event.
