Jack Nicklaus nearly hits patrons with Masters – Sports News
Jack Nicklaus appeared visibly relieved when his wayward honorary tee shot narrowly missed spectators on the Masters.
On Thursday, the opening spherical of the Masters obtained underway. Following custom, Nicklaus — who left a former winner limping after the Champions Dinner — served as an honorary starter on the 2026 Masters alongside Tom Watson and Gary Player.
The six-time Green Jacket winner can also be the oldest champion at Augusta National, claiming that closing title at age 46. Nicklaus has fulfilled the function of Masters starter since 2010, however the PGA Tour icon appeared more relieved than proud as his newest attempt veered left towards watching spectators.
Nicklaus’ son, Jackie, positioned the ball on the tee, and the 86-year-old provided a lighthearted warning to the spectators surrounding the tee box as he joked: “Oh boy, watch out, and I don’t mean that facetiously.”
Nicklaus’ tee shot pulled sharply left, and the low hook appeared destined to strike spectators in attendance. His ball barely cleared the group, and the 17-time main winner chuckled to himself upon realizing he had prevented an awkward scenario.
While laughing to himself, Nicklaus positioned his hand on his coronary heart to display his aid at lacking the spectators. Watson even glanced over at ‘The Golden Bear’ and stated: “Well, you didn’t have a practice swing, did you?”
Speaking afterward, Nicklaus stated: “I was a little worried. I had carpal tunnel surgery about five or six weeks ago, and I was worried about being able to hold onto the golf club and hurt somebody.
“I’m lucky that I obtained it over anyone’s head. I did not hit it very effectively, however I obtained it over their heads and did not damage anyone. As long as I can nonetheless hit the golf ball.”
The honorary starter tradition at Augusta National originated in 1963, when Jock Hutchinson and Fred McLeod participated. It has evolved into a cherished ritual, with 11 legends and former champions having fulfilled the role.
Player teamed with Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer for numerous years until the latter’s passing in 2016. Watson subsequently joined the pair, and the threesome has continued to this day.
It remains uncertain how much longer Nicklaus will carry on. He acknowledged he doesn’t play golf frequently nowadays, but insists on participating in the honorary start until it poses a safety risk.
“But it is such a good ceremony, and it is a actual honor to be invited,” Nicklaus continued. “I hope to have the ability to do it as long as I can’t kill anyone.”
Nicklaus is arguably golf’s biggest icon. He secured his closing Masters championship in 1986, recovering from an opening-round rating of 74, capturing 71 within the second spherical and 69 within the third to complete tied for ninth at 2-under par – 4 strokes behind Greg Norman. In the fifth-to-last grouping on the ultimate day with Sandy Lyle, Nicklaus emerged victorious.
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