the 2025 Masters Tournament.
Augusta National Awakes to Golf's Greatest Tradition
The 89th Masters Tournament officially commenced Thursday morning as the sun crested over Augusta National Golf Club, with three legendary champions performing the traditional ceremonial tee shots that mark the beginning of golf's first major championship of the year.
At precisely 7:25 a.m. ET, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, and Tom Watson—boasting a combined 11 Masters titles between them—took to the first tee to continue a cherished tradition that has become one of golf's most poignant ceremonies Golfweek1.
The ceremonial opening, now in its fourth consecutive year with this particular trio, delivered moments of both reverence and levity that have come to characterize this special Augusta tradition.
Three Legends, Three Distinctive Tee Shots
The ceremony began with Gary Player, the first international Masters champion, who approached the tee with his characteristic enthusiasm. "I feel it gets a little more narrow every year," Player quipped as he prepared his shot Golfweek1. After striking his ball, the 89-year-old South African picked up his tee and kicked his right leg high into the air, displaying remarkable athleticism for his age AJC2.
Six-time Masters champion Jack Nicklaus followed, prefacing his shot with a self-deprecating joke that delighted the gathered patrons. "When I walk up, make sure I don't trip," Nicklaus quipped AJC2. The Golden Bear then struck his ball with intent and celebrated with an exuberant display, raising both hands high above his head while letting out a roar that echoed through the Georgia pines CBS Sports3.
Tom Watson, the most recent addition to the honorary starter group since 2022, completed the ceremony with his fourth ceremonial tee shot. As he bent down to place his ball on the tee, he exchanged a friendly joke with Nicklaus that drew appreciative laughter from the crowd CBS Sports3.
In a moment of reflection that captured the significance of the occasion, Player expressed gratitude for his long association with the tournament: "I'm standing here for the 67th time, and I think the word is gratitude, just being here" AJC2.
A Tradition Rich in History
The honorary starter tradition at Augusta dates back to 1941 when amateur Francis Ouimet played the first round before withdrawing. While the role wasn't officially established at that time, Ouimet's appearance at the urging of tournament co-founder Bobby Jones planted the seed for what would become one of the Masters' most cherished traditions Golfweek1.
This year's ceremony carries additional significance as it marks the 50-year anniversary of Nicklaus's fifth green jacket and 13th major championship title CBS Sports3.
Early Tournament Action Unfolds
Following the ceremonial tee shots, the competitive rounds began in earnest at 7:40 a.m. with Davis Riley and Patton Kizzire forming the first official pairing of the tournament AJC2.
In the early going, Masters debutant Aaron Rai of England has made a remarkable start, recording birdies on the second and third holes to join the early leaders at 2-under par. Fellow Englishman Danny Willett, the 2016 Masters champion, also began strongly at 1-under par BBC Sport4.
Denmark's Nicolai Hojgaard has shown resilience in his round, responding to early difficulties with three consecutive birdies to improve his standing. Meanwhile, 66-year-old Bernhard Langer continues to defy his age with an early birdie at the third hole BBC Sport4.
Defending champion Scottie Scheffler, who enters the tournament as the pre-tournament favorite, is scheduled to tee off at 10:15 a.m. alongside Justin Thomas and amateur Jose Luis Ballester AJC2.
Key Storylines Emerging
Several compelling narratives are developing as the first round progresses. Collin Morikawa, the 28-year-old American with two major championships already to his name, is eyeing his maiden Masters title. Known for his exceptional approach play, Morikawa has positioned himself as a serious contender at Augusta National BBC Sport4.
The participation of LIV Golf players continues to be a talking point, with commentary from Masters officials regarding the tournament's position on including qualified players regardless of tour affiliation BBC Sport4.
Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy, still in pursuit of the one major championship that has eluded him to complete the career Grand Slam, has reportedly been working with a sports psychologist to improve his discipline at Augusta. Golf legend Jack Nicklaus has spoken about McIlroy's need to enhance his approach to the challenging course BBC Sport4.
Augusta National's Recovery from Hurricane Helene
A significant backdrop to this year's tournament is Augusta National's remarkable recovery from Hurricane Helene, which caused substantial damage to the iconic course. The storm's impact resulted in the loss of numerous trees, altering the appearance of some of the course's most recognizable holes BBC Sport4.
Irish golfer Shane Lowry has commented on the changes, noting the resilience of the Augusta National team in restoring the course to championship condition. While some visual differences are apparent to players familiar with the course's traditional appearance, the playing conditions remain exemplary—a testament to the dedication of the grounds crew and staff BBC Sport4.
The Tournament Ahead
As the first round continues throughout the day, all eyes will be on the early leaders and the performance of pre-tournament favorites. With perfect playing conditions and Augusta National's immaculate presentation despite recent challenges, the stage is set for four days of compelling competition.
The ceremonial tee shots by Nicklaus, Player, and Watson have once again provided a fitting opening to golf's most prestigious event, connecting the tournament's rich history with its vibrant present. As the action unfolds on this historic Georgia course, the 2025 Masters promises to deliver the drama, beauty, and exceptional golf that have made it the most anticipated tournament of the year.
Follow our continued coverage for updates as the Masters progresses through all four rounds.
This blog post combines reporting from CBS Sports, BBC Sport, Golfweek/USA Today, and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.###
