Who won the first Masters? This is a question that has intrigued golf enthusiasts for decades. The first Masters Tournament, held in 1934, marked the beginning of one of the most prestigious events in the sport of golf. Discover the story behind the first champion and how this historic event shaped the future of golf.
The first Masters Tournament was played at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia. The tournament was the brainchild of Bobby Jones, a legendary golfer who had won the Grand Slam in 1930. Jones, along with Clifford Roberts, envisioned a tournament that would showcase the best golfers in the world and become a highlight of the golfing calendar.
The first Masters was scheduled to take place in 1933, but due to the Great Depression, it was postponed until 1934. The tournament was originally planned to be a one-time event, but it quickly gained popularity and has since become an annual tradition.
The field for the first Masters consisted of 36 players, including the top professionals from the United States and a few international golfers. The competition was fierce, with several players vying for the title. However, it was Horton Smith, an American golfer from New York, who emerged as the winner.
Horton Smith, then 25 years old, had already won the U.S. Open in 1931 and was a strong contender for the title. He played with great determination throughout the tournament, overcoming a three-shot deficit on the final day. In the dramatic final round, Smith birdied the 18th hole to secure a one-shot victory over Gene Sarazen, who finished as the runner-up.
The first Masters was a memorable event, not only for Horton Smith’s victory but also for the history-making performance of Gene Sarazen. On the 11th hole, Sarazen hit a remarkable shot known as the “Sarazen shot,” where he holed out a 40-yard pitch from the fairway with a 5-iron. This shot has since become one of the most iconic moments in golf history.
The first Masters not only established Horton Smith as a champion but also set the stage for the future of golf. The tournament’s unique format, the challenging course at Augusta National, and the tradition of inviting the top players from around the world have all contributed to the Masters’ reputation as the “Grand Slam of Golf.”
In conclusion, the first Masters was won by Horton Smith, an accomplished golfer who demonstrated great skill and determination. This historic event has left an indelible mark on the sport of golf, and the legacy of the first Masters continues to inspire golfers and fans alike.
