The second week of April brings the first golf major of the year, the Masters Tournament. Steeped in tradition and overwhelming in cachet, the Masters is one of the most important sporting events of the year.

 

Nearly every aspect of Masters week has historical significance. Fruitland Nurseries was purchased as the location for Augusta National Golf Club. In honor of this history, every hole is named after a plant. Crystal awards are given for breaking certain records whether that player wins the tournament or not. Other traditions include a par three contest, a skipping contest and a champion’s dinner. The winner of the Masters earns a sterling silver trophy, prize money, a gold medal, a lifetime invitation to the Masters, invitations to the other major championships, a spot in the champion’s locker room and the legendary green jacket.

The green jacket was initially reserved only for members of Augusta National. In 1949, Sam Snead won the Masters Tournament and was awarded the green jacket and an honorary membership; all prior and subsequent winners received a green jacket. The color of the jacket is Masters Green or Pantone 342. Each Masters winner gets one green jacket regardless of subsequent wins (though some have received subsequent jackets with size changes). The club does not have jackets made before the winner is decided. Instead, the green jacket placed upon the champion comes from a member of a similar size, and the winner’s own jacket is custom-tailored afterward. The green jacket must be returned after one year to be stored at the clubhouse. The members may don the jacket only when returning to Augusta National or when representing the club in an official capacity.

The iconic green jacket is just one of many facets that make the Masters a tradition unlike any other. Despite its seemingly immodest name, the Masters Tournament is truly unparalleled. Golf fans and Augusta National patrons can enjoy the 2025 Masters Tournament, taking place from April 10^th through the 13^th.