When was the first Masters? This question has intrigued golf enthusiasts for decades, as the Masters Tournament is one of the most prestigious events in the sport. The first Masters was held on April 10, 1934, at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia, USA. The tournament was created by Bobby Jones and Clifford Roberts, who envisioned a championship that would showcase the best golfers in the world and elevate the game to new heights.
The concept of the Masters originated from Jones’ desire to create a tournament that would bring together the top golfers from around the globe. Jones, a legendary golfer himself, had won the Grand Slam of Golf in 1930, which included the British Open, U.S. Open, PGA Championship, and the Open Championship. He believed that a similar event was needed in the United States to highlight the sport’s elite players.
In 1933, Jones and Roberts purchased the Augusta National Golf Club, which was designed by the famous architect Alister MacKenzie. The club’s layout and design were meticulously crafted to provide a challenging yet fair test of golf. The first Masters was scheduled for 1934, and it quickly gained popularity among golfers and fans alike.
The first Masters was won by Horton Smith, who defeated Gene Sarazen, Walter Hagen, and Craig Wood in a playoff. Smith’s victory was a significant achievement, as he was the first player to win the tournament outright, without needing a playoff. The tournament’s format has since evolved, but the tradition of a four-day event with a playoff for the final round has remained.
Over the years, the Masters has become synonymous with the term “tradition.” The tournament is known for its hallowed traditions, such as the honorary starters, the green jacket, and the iconic Amen Corner. The green jacket, awarded to the champion, is a symbol of the highest honor in golf and is a cherished possession among Masters winners.
The first Masters not only marked the beginning of a new era in golf but also set the stage for the future success of the sport. It has since grown into one of the most anticipated events in the golf calendar, with players from around the world vying for the coveted green jacket. The tournament’s rich history and the legacy of the first Masters continue to inspire golfers and fans worldwide.
