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Each year, the Masters at Augusta showcases an extraordinary exhibition of golf and athletic prowess, with the presentation of the Green Jacket being a vital part of the event.
Amidst the radiant sunshine, gleaming fairways, remarkable golfing feats, and the beloved customs of the Georgia club, this event stands unmatched.
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The victor of this esteemed tournament receives one of the most legendary victory celebrations in sports.
The eagerly awaited passing of the iconic Green Jacket from last year’s champion to the new titleholder is a highlight of the event. What lies behind the importance of this tradition? Here’s everything you need to know…
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What is the origin of the green jacket at Augusta?
The donning of the green jacket signifies a crowning victory for any tournament champion, steeped in a rich history.
This tale dates back to Bobby Jones, co-founder of Augusta, who was inspired during a dinner at the Royal Liverpool golf club in Hoylake, where captains wore red jackets to stand out.
When Augusta opened in 1933, club members wore green jackets, enabling fans to easily identify officials for assistance.
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Initially, many club members had reservations about the weighty green coat, which ultimately led to the introduction of a lighter, custom-fit jacket.
This single-breasted, single-vent coat boasts a color officially termed as “Masters Green” and is adorned with the Augusta National Golf Club logo on the left chest pocket. Why do winners of the Masters don the green jacket?
The green jacket was first made public in 1937, soon becoming a symbol denoting membership in the exclusive Augusta National.
In 1949, it was established that tournament champions would retain the jacket for life, thereby gaining access to the Champions Club at Augusta.
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This also means that if they secure another victory, they can compete without needing to qualify, ensuring their participation for the rest of their lives.
The first victor of the Masters in 1949 was Sam Snead, marking him as the first recipient of the jacket, although jackets were also crafted for previous winners at that time.
What is the current ceremony surrounding the green jacket?
Upon the conclusion of every Masters, the green jacket ceremony takes place, in which the newly crowned champion is presented with the green jacket.
The previous year’s winner bestows the jacket to the newly crowned champion.
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If a player wins in consecutive years and is unable to put the jacket on themselves, the Augusta National chairman steps in to assist by draping it over the winner.
The jacket is retrieved from the locker room, with officials estimating the best size for the new champion.
Afterward, the champion is measured, and a custom jacket is created just for them.
Who holds the record for the most green jackets/Masters victories?
Legendary American golfer Jack Nicklaus holds the record with six victories spanning from 1963 to 1986, while Tiger Woods is just behind him with five.
Other esteemed golfers who have claimed the title three times include Sam Snead, South Africa’s Gary Player, British champion Nick Faldo, and Phil Mickelson.
Those with two victories encompass Tom Watson, the late Seve Ballesteros, Bernhard Langer, Jose Maria Olazabal, and Bubba Watson.
