Masters 2024: Honorary Starters Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Tom Watson commence 88th edition

Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tom Watson — a combined 11 green jackets between them — commenced the 88th edition of the Masters Tournament.

Following a 2 1/2-hour weather delay, Player, the first international winner of the event in 1961, teed off first. He was followed by six-time Masters champion Nicklaus and then two-time winner Watson.

“Ladies and gentlemen, the 2024 Masters Tournament is officially underway,” said Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley.

The tradition of honorary starters began at the 1963 Masters. Here’s a look at players who have served this role, per Augusta National Golf Club:

• Jock Hutchison, 1963–1973
• Fred McLeod, 1963–1976
• Byron Nelson, 1981-2001 (nonconsecutive)
• Gene Sarazen, 1981–1999
• Ken Venturi, 1983
• Sam Snead, 1984–2002
• Arnold Palmer, 2007–2016
• Jack Nicklaus, 2010–present
• Gary Player, 2012–present
• Lee Elder, 2021
• Tom Watson, 2022–present