Why Masters champions are given iconic green jacket after winning at Augusta

The tradition of awarding the iconic green jacket to the winner of the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club holds a rich history steeped in tradition and prestige. Each year, golfers from around the world gather at Augusta, vying for the chance to etch their name into the annals of golf history and don the revered green jacket.

The origins of this tradition trace back to the tournament’s co-founder, Bobby Jones, a legendary figure in golf history. Legend has it that Jones was inspired by the formal red coats worn by club captains at Hoylake Golf Club in 1930. During a conversation with Kenneth Stoker, the club’s former captain, Jones expressed his fascination with the attire. In a gesture of jest, Stoker promised Jones his coat should he emerge victorious in the upcoming tournament. True to his word, Jones claimed victory and was bestowed with the coveted red coat.

Jones’s influence extended beyond his playing career. As one of the architects of Augusta National Golf Club and a co-founder of the Masters Tournament, he played a pivotal role in shaping the traditions of the event. In 1937, club members began sporting green jackets, setting the stage for a tradition that would endure for decades to come.

In 1949, Sam Snead, the champion of that year’s Masters Tournament, was the first to be officially presented with a green jacket. From that moment on, every winner of the Masters has been awarded this distinctive garment, symbolizing their triumph on the hallowed grounds of Augusta National.

The green jacket holds a unique place in the world of sports trophies. Unlike traditional trophies, which are often displayed in the winners’ homes, the green jacket remains at Augusta National, with one exception—the defending champion is permitted to keep it for the duration of their reign. This exclusivity adds to the allure of the green jacket, making it a cherished symbol of victory in the world of golf.

For champions like Jon Rahm, who claimed the green jacket in previous years, the garment serves as a constant reminder of their achievement. Whether it’s proudly displayed in their closet or worn on special occasions, the green jacket represents a pinnacle moment in their career—a moment of triumph on one of golf’s grandest stages.

As golfers gather once again at Augusta National, the green jacket remains the ultimate prize, a symbol of excellence and a testament to the enduring legacy of the Masters Tournament. And for those who have earned the right to wear it, the green jacket is more than just a piece of clothing—it’s a symbol of their place in golf history.