David J. Phillip / Associated Press
Augusta National Golf Club announced Wednesday that the 2020 Masters Tournament will not allow fans on the course during this year’s Nov. 9-15.
President Fred Ridley issued a statement on the decision:
“Since our first announcement to postpone the 2020 Masters, we have been dedicated to a rescheduled tournament in November, while constantly exploring how best to host a global sporting event amid this pandemic. While we Considering the problems, the health and safety of us all associated with the Masters has always been our first and foremost priority.
“In this process, we have consulted with health officials and a variety of subject matter experts. Finally, we have determined that the potential risks of protection and guests in November on our grounds are simply too important to overcome.”
Ridley said the club is hoping to have fans on the field for the 2021 Masters next April.
Masters of this year was originally scheduled for April 9-12, but was postponed because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Ridley announced April 6 that Augusta National Golf Club “identified “the week of Nov. 9-15 as the likely dates for the tournament.
It was not clear at the time if fans were allowed to participate. Ridley remarked, “OhYour future plans are placed on favorable advice and guidance from health officials.“
The 2020 Masters mark the first time the tournament has been played outside of the month of April since 1939. The tournament was canceled for three straight years from 1943 to 1945 due to World War II.
The Masters will be this very last major event on the PGA Tour. Collin Morikawa won the PGA Championship last weekend. The US Open is scheduled for September 17-20 in Mamaroneck, New York. The Open Championship, originally scheduled to be played July 16-19, was canceled due to the pandemic.
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