Masters golf tournament postponed amid coronavirus outbreak

Postponed: The Masters

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13 March 2020

The Masters has been postponed as the worldwide spread of coronavirus continues to hit sport.

On Friday morning it was announced by the PGA Tour that all events, including The Players Championship which was already underway, up to The Masters would be postponed to a later date in an attempt to halt the spread of COVID-19 and protect players, staff and fans.

The Masters, which attracts 35,000-40,000 patrons on each competition day from Thursday to Sunday - as well as up to 50,000 earlier in the week for practice rounds and the par three tournament, will now be held at a later date this year.

In a statement released on Friday, chairman of Augusta National Golf Club, Fred Ridley said: "On Wednesday, March 4, we issued a memo stating that our plans to host the Masters Tournament, the Augusta National Women’s Amateur and the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals had not changed.

"Unfortunately, the ever-increasing risks associated with the widespread Coronavirus COVID-19 have led us to a decision that undoubtedly will be disappointing to many, although I am confident is appropriate under these unique circumstances.

"Considering the latest information and expert analysis, we have decided at this time to postpone the Masters Tournament, the Augusta National Women’s Amateur and the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals.

"Ultimately, the health and well-being of everyone associated with these events and the citizens of the Augusta community led us to this decision. We hope this postponement puts us in the best position to safely host the Masters Tournament and our amateur events at some later date.

"We will continue to work with the World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Office of the Governor, the Georgia Department of Public Health, the City of Augusta and all other local authorities. We are grateful to all of these entities for their exceptional efforts and guidance.

"We recognize this decision will affect many people, including our loyal patrons. Your patience as we make every effort to communicate effectively and efficiently is appreciated, and we will share any additional information as soon as it becomes available. Updates also will be posted to our website, Masters.com.

"As COVID-19 continues to impact the lives of people everywhere, we seek your understanding of this decision and know you share our concern given these trying times. Thank you for your faithful support."

Tiger Woods memorably claimed his first major title in more than a decade at Augusta last year, claiming his 5th green jacket and taking his major tally to 15.

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