The Green Jacket is one of the most recognizable and prestigious symbols in the sport of golf, awarded to the winner of the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club.
Origins of the Green Jacket
- The tradition started in 1937 when Augusta National members began wearing green jackets during the tournament to stand out as hosts and offer assistance to patrons.
- In 1949, the club extended the tradition to include the Masters champion, with Sam Snead being the first recipient.
Rules & Traditions of the Green Jacket
- The champion is presented the jacket immediately after winning and allowed to take it home for one year before returning it to Augusta National.
- The previous year's winner helps the new champion put on the jacket during the award ceremony.
- All past winners have their jackets stored in the Champions Locker Room at Augusta National and can wear them only on club property.
Notable Green Jacket Moments
- Jack Nicklaus holds the record for the most Masters victories, winning six Green Jackets between 1963 and 1986.
- Tiger Woods won his first Masters in 1997 at age 21 and received his fifth Green Jacket in 2019, marking one of golf’s greatest comebacks.
- In 1960, Arnold Palmer became the first Masters champion to receive a duplicate Green Jacket, as his original was misplaced.
The Green Jacket remains an iconic symbol of excellence in golf, worn only by Masters champions and Augusta National members.