After remaining silent for more than a week, Augusta National Golf Club announced on Friday morning that the Masters, which was scheduled to begin on April 9, will be postponed indefinitely due to coronavirus fears.
“Unfortunately, the ever-increasing risks associated with the widespread Coronavirus COVID-19 have led us to a decision that undoubtedly will be disappointing to many, although I am confident is appropriate under these unique circumstances,” Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley said in a statement released to the media. “Considering the latest information and expert analysis, we have decided at this time to postpone the Masters Tournament, the Augusta National Women’s Amateur and the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals.
“We hope this postponement puts us in the best position to safely host the Masters Tournament and our amateur events at some later date.”
On March 4, Ridley released a statement reassuring fans that the Masters, along with the Augusta National Women’s Amateur and the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals, would proceed as scheduled.
“The safety, health and well-being of everyone is our top priority at Augusta National Golf Club,” Ridley said in a statement at that time. “We will continue to review the available facts and information with the experts and authorities, establish precautions and take appropriate action to ensure the safety of all involved.”
But since that time, the World Health Organization classified the COVID-19 as a global pandemic on Wednesday. The NBA moved to postpone the rest of the season alongside the NHL, and MLB canceled spring training and postponed the start of the season for two weeks. The club’s decision to postpone golf’s first major of the season comes 12 hours after PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan canceled the Players Championship after one round and declared all Tour events canceled through the Valero Texas Open, which is the tournament that precedes the Masters.
“I think there’s bigger problems in the world right now than whether we play the Masters or not,” Jon Rahm said. “It’s as simple as that.”
“We recognize this decision will affect many people, including our loyal patrons,” Ridley said in his statement. “Your patience as we make every effort to communicate effectively and efficiently is appreciated, and we will share any additional information as soon as it becomes available. Updates also will be posted to our website, Masters.com.”
