The Masters is a ways off, but that hasn’t stopped those in charge from joining other sports and banning fans from their event.
The Augusta National Golf Club announced on Wednesday morning that The Masters, which is scheduled to be held from November 9-15, will not have fans in attendance.
Augusta National Chairman Fred Ridley explained the decision in a statement:
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. 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. 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.
We appreciate the support and patience of all those we serve – including the Augusta community, our corporate and broadcast partners and our friends in golf – as we continue to plan for this historic event.
But ticket holders for this year’s Masters need fear not, their tickets will be honored for the event in 2021. Assuming the country isn’t still locked down 15 months from now.
Follow Dylan Gwinn on Twitter @themightygwinn