Masters 2024: The best photos from Augusta’s honorary starters ceremony

Despite a delay of approximately 90 minutes due to overnight rains, the anticipation among patrons for the start of the 2024 Masters remained palpable. The honorary starters ceremony, a cherished tradition, delivered all the expected grandeur and excitement, even under the lingering overcast skies.

Chairman Fred Ridley, with his customary grace, introduced the esteemed trio of Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, and Tom Watson. Together, their illustrious careers boasted a remarkable 11 green jackets and a collective 140 starts spanning over six decades, serving as the living embodiment of the tournament’s storied history.

Despite the inevitable march of time, Player, at the age of 88, exuded a vitality that belied his years. As he confidently struck a drive down the middle, the crowd held its breath, knowing they were witnessing a legend in action. Player’s trademark kick into the air after his shot hinted at his enduring competitive spirit, as if he were ready to embark on another quest for the coveted green jacket.

Nicklaus, aged 84, approached the tee with his characteristic charm and wit. Ever the humble legend, he couldn’t resist a playful jab at the tee placement, eliciting laughter from the gathered crowd. With his wife Barbara by his side, serving as his honorary caddie, Nicklaus proceeded to execute a smooth shot that found the fairway, further cementing his status as a master of the game.

Not to be outdone, Watson, at 74, joined in the lighthearted banter, teasing Nicklaus about his shot selection with a twinkle in his eye. The camaraderie and friendly rivalry between these icons added an extra layer of charm to the ceremony, reminding everyone of the enduring bonds forged through years of competition on golf’s grandest stage.

In a brief but memorable exchange, Watson’s playful ribbing of Nicklaus was met with a quick-witted retort, showcasing the camaraderie and competitive spirit that define these legendary figures. With each precise shot finding the fairway, the trio demonstrated that age is no barrier to skill and grace on the golf course.

As the ceremony drew to a close, Chairman Ridley’s words rang out across the hushed grounds: “The 2024 Masters is officially underway.” With those eagerly awaited words, the excitement and anticipation reached a crescendo, marking the beginning of another chapter in the storied history of Augusta National Golf Club.