Masters to have 'limited number' of spectators in April

Augusta National Golf Club is hoping to have a “limited number” of spectators on site for the 85th Masters Tournament in April.

Dustin Johnson poses with the trophy after winning the Masters at Augusta National Golf Club in November, when the event was played behind closed doors. Picture: Rob Carr/Getty Images.

Only essential personnel were allowed at the Georgia venue for November’s rescheduled event, won in record-breaking fashion by Dustin Johnson, after it was delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

But, on the back of that event being staged in a safe environment, it is now hoped that some “patrons” will be allowed to attend the 2021 edition back in its traditional spring slot.

Fred Ridley, chairman of Augusta National Golf Club, said: “Following the successful conduct of the Masters Tournament last November with only essential personnel, we are confident in our ability to responsibly invite a limited number of patrons to Augusta National in April.

“As with the November Masters, we will implement practices and policies that will protect the health and safety of everyone in attendance.

“Nothing is, or will be, more important than the well-being of all involved. While we are disappointed that we will be unable to accommodate a full complement of patrons this year, we will continue our efforts to ensure that all who purchased tickets from Augusta National will have access in 2022, provided conditions improve.”

In addition, Ridley announced the club’s intention to conduct the Augusta National Women’s Amateur and the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals as scheduled in April.

Both of these competitions, which did not take place in 2020 due to the pandemic, also intend to host a small number of patrons.

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