The 89th Masters is just around the corner, and while golf fans know the basics of the tournament, there are many surprising traditions that make the event unique. From caddie bibs to crystal glassware, here are ten facts you might not know about Augusta National.
Caddies at the Masters wear white jumpsuits with numbered bibs, but did you know the numbers have meaning? The defending champion always gets No. 1, while the player arriving first gets No. 2. This year, Max Greyserman has No. 2 and Phil Mickelson has No. 95.
The green jacket awarded to the winner is not his to keep – it’s worn by the reigning champion for a year before being returned to the locker room. The winner also sets the menu for next year’s Champions’ Dinner, which is exclusive to past champions.
Even runners-up get rewards – they receive silver medals and have their name engraved on the permanent Masters trophy. Players who shoot eagles or double eagles during competition earn crystal glassware, while those with the lowest score of each round receive a crystal vase.
The tournament also has dedicated bridges named after iconic golfers like Byron Nelson and Gene Sarazen. The record fountain behind the 17th green lists course record progressions and year-by-year champions.
Each hole at Augusta National is named after a different flowering plant, and the par-5 13th hole is home to the brightest azaleas. Amateurs who make it to the Masters field can stay in the Crow’s Nest, a special room above the cupola in the clubhouse.
Winning the Masters also comes with perks – past champions get an honorary membership, reserved tee times, and the chance to return for next year’s Champions’ Dinner.
Source: https://www.pgatour.com/article/news/betting-dfs/2025/04/09/masters-minutiae-10-facts-you-might-not-know-about-year-first-major-augusta-national-clubhouse-food-jackets-caddie-bibs