The 90th Masters Tournament is officially underway, and it began with a moment steeped in the history and tradition that makes Augusta National so special. The iconic trio of Honorary Starters—Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, and Tom Watson—once again had the honor of launching the first tee shots of the 2026 event, a role they have shared for the fourth consecutive year.

As the sun rose over a crisp Augusta morning, the legends took their turns on the first tee. Gary Player, the 90-year-old three-time champion and first international winner of the green jacket, set the tone. After striking his ball, he performed his signature celebratory kick, a familiar sight for golf fans worldwide.

Next up was the Golden Bear himself, 86-year-old Jack Nicklaus, a six-time Masters champion. With his trademark humor, Nicklaus quipped that he was now "too big time" to tee his own ball, leaving the duty to his caddie. His shot may have hooked left, prompting a playful, delayed "Fore!" and a brush of the tee with a chuckle, but the moment was pure Nicklaus: competitive spirit wrapped in good-natured grace.

Finally, two-time champion Tom Watson, 76, stepped up. After teasing Nicklaus about skipping a practice swing, Watson showcased the smooth swing that defined his career, sending his drive straight down the fairway. With that, Augusta National Chairman Fred Ridley declared the 90th Masters open, passing the torch from the legends of yesterday to the competitors of today who dream of joining them at future Champions Dinners.

This ceremonial opening is more than just a formality; it's a powerful link between the game's past and present. It’s a reminder of the excellence, sportsmanship, and enduring legacy that these champions embody—the same qualities we celebrate in the spirit of the game every time we step onto the course. As the tournament unfolds, we watch the next generation chase their own piece of history, inspired by the giants who started it all.