The 90th Masters is back in action with 91 of the world’s best golfers ready to tee off with a different vibe to start the event. Comedian/Actor Kevin Hart and Former-NFL Lineman Jason Kelce took over this year, consuming a lot of coverage on television during the Masters Par 3 broadcast. The only one missing is the man who has made his tournament popular among the younger generation over the past few decades. Tiger Woods, who usually gets much of the coverage when he is active in the tournament. There is no need to elaborate on his absence as it has been all over the news outlets and media.
The guest appearances by today’s popular American celebrities have gained attention on social media with some fans saying are giving “The Masters” a bad rep. There is a transparent divide among golf fans who are in favor of growing the game by bringing in famous celebrities, and then there are those who believe that bringing in this kind of attention, calling it “Amateur hour” is making a mockery of one of the most prestigious tournaments in golf. Kevin Hart was seen teeing off with junior clubs in a “shmedium” caddy jumpsuit getting lessons with Bryson DeChambeau on the practice greens, and Jason Kelce had a chance to caddy for Akshay Bhatia fist bumping football fans, conducting interviews, and sitting in lawn chairs along the fairway.
It felt like a “Happy Gilmore” fan base was in attendance, displaying a “pop-culture” that is taking a turn and becoming a more of an alternative crowd. Well, not to that extent, but close enough. Some fans brought up the unfortunate history of the old golf culture in the conversation stating that The Masters did not admit a black member until 1990, or a woman until 2012. Decades ago, the general manager of Augusta National Golf Club made the statement that golfers are white, and caddies are black. This being a reason why a handful of fans thought this was the reason why Kevin Hart was brought into Caddy. Most would agree that it is a little over the top… People need to relax and just enjoy a game that is purely for entertainment purposes.
On the brighter side, having golf legends Tom Watson, Gary Player, and Jack Nicklaus make an appearance stepping onto the 1st tee for the ceremonial honoree starter shots was a great seeing that the tradition will continue to carry on. Current elite golfers such as Jordan Speith, Scottie Scheffler, Max Homa, Brian Harman, and many others were able to create everlasting memories bringing their children on the course during the Par 3 Contest to enjoy some wholesome moments which is to this day, one of the best traditions in sports.
The Par 3 Contest sent The Masters off to a great start, giving a preview of what’s to come this weekend. Justin “Show me the money” Thomas sunk an ace right before tossing his little girl in the air full of excitement, and Jose Maria Olazabal chipped in a miraculous birdie from the sandpit proving to the crowd the age ain’t nothing but a number. Tomorrow, greatness begins to kick off the most consummate four-day golf tournament set to effectuate further memorable moments in the 2026 Masters Tournament.
Dante Robinson | Senior PGA Analyst for The NSR Network
