Memorable Moments from the Masters
The Masters, held at Augusta National since 1934, has been a stage for countless unforgettable moments. Over the past half-century, there have been many highlights that have captured the imagination of golf fans around the world.
McIlroy Melodrama
Rory McIlroy’s journey to completing the career Grand Slam was nothing short of dramatic. During the final round last year, he faced a challenging back nine. A double-bogey seven after his 90-yard approach landed in Rae’s Creek at the 13th hole seemed to threaten his chances. However, McIlroy delivered a shot for the ages at the par-five 15th. He hooked a brilliant seven iron around trees from 207 yards out on the left of the fairway, setting up an eight-foot eagle chance. Although he only managed a birdie, it was enough to get him back on track and eventually secure a play-off victory over Justin Rose.
Tiger Chips In
One of the most iconic television moments in Masters history came from Tiger Woods in 2005. Facing a tough situation on the 16th hole, Woods chipped out 20 feet above the hole. The ball took 16 seconds to roll down the slope, pausing at the edge of the hole to showcase his sponsor’s Nike logo before finally dropping into the cup. Despite two bogeys that followed, Woods went on to win a play-off against Chris Di Marco at the first extra hole.
Woods Wins at a Canter
Tiger Woods’ record-breaking maiden win at Augusta in 1997 is still remembered as one of the greatest performances in golf history. Starting the final round with a nine-stroke lead, Woods shot a 69 to break the 72-hole scoring record with a total of 270. He won by a record 12 shots, becoming the first African-American to win a major. His fist-pump after holing the final putt became a trademark, but the emotional moment came when he hugged his father, Earl, six weeks after a heart bypass. This moment was described by television commentary as “A win for the ages.”
Six and Out for Nicklaus
Forty years ago, Jack Nicklaus secured his sixth Green Jacket and the final of his 18 majors. Starting the final day four off the lead, Nicklaus knew this might be his last chance at 46 years old. However, a strong back-nine charge put him in contention. Tied for the lead, he hit an approach to 12 feet at the 17th and holed out for birdie. A par at the last saw him come home in 30 for a round of 65, giving him a one-stroke victory over Tom Kite and Greg Norman.
Unlucky 13 for Weiskopf
While the Masters has seen many triumphs, it has also been a stage for misfortune. Tom Weiskopf’s experience in the 1980 Masters is a prime example. In 48 previous rounds, the four-time runner-up had found the water just once at the tricky par-three 12th. However, during his first round of the 1980 Masters, he hit five balls into Rae’s Creek on his way to a 13, equalling the record for the joint highest score at a single hole at Augusta.
