AUGUSTA, Ga. — The 2026 Masters began Thursday morning in familiar fashion, as honorary starters Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson struck the ceremonial opening tee shots at Augusta National Golf Club.
The tradition, one of the most recognizable in golf, signaled the official start of the year’s first major championship. A small gallery gathered around the first tee just after sunrise, applauding as the trio of legends took their swings.
Nicklaus, an 18-time major champion, once again drew the loudest response, while Player and Watson followed with trademark poise. The ceremony, brief but symbolic, connected generations of champions and set the tone for the tournament.
Moments later, the field of 80-plus players prepared to begin competition, chasing the green jacket on one of golf’s most demanding stages.
With ideal early conditions and anticipation building, the opening round of the Masters was underway.
