Golf’s most-feared decision of 2020 has come true … this year’s edition of the Masters will be conducted without any fans or guests.
The Augusta National Golf Club made the announcement on Wednesday afternoon due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
It means the famous Amen Corner will be mostly silent by the time a new winner is awarded the Green Jacket.
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Due to the lengthy break in world golf, like most events, the Masters had to be rescheduled with 12-15 November the new dates.
‘Since our initial announcement to postpone the 2020 Masters, we have remained committed to a rescheduled tournament in November while continually examining how best to host a global sporting event amid this pandemic,’ read a statement from Masters chairman Fred Ridley.
‘As we have considered the issues facing us, the health and safety of everyone associated with the Masters always has been our first and most important priority. Throughout this process, we have consulted with health officials and a variety of subject matter experts. Ultimately, we determined that the potential risks of welcoming patrons and guests to our grounds in November are simply too significant to overcome.
‘Even in the current circumstances, staging the Masters without patrons is deeply disappointing. The guests who come to Augusta each spring from around the world are a key component to making the tournament so special.
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‘Augusta National has the responsibility, however, to understand and accept the challenges associated with this virus and take the necessary precautions to conduct all aspects of the Tournament in a safe manner. We look forward to the day when we can welcome all of our patrons back, hopefully in April 2021.’
More than 50,000 people were expected to flock to Augusta National on a daily basis during the week of the Masters.
It now looks almost certain that the remaining events of the year, including the US Open, will take place without any spectators.
