The Masters Tournament is “a tradition unlike any other” in nearly every way. This includes its own set of vocabulary. Its distinct vernacular is just one reason why the Masters remains one of the world’s most beloved tournaments. Whether you’re a first-time viewer or a seasoned veteran, here are all of the unique Masters terms you should know while watching this year.
Essential Masters Terms
1. Amen Corner: Amen Corner refers to the three-hole stretch on the second nine including holes 11, 12, and 13. 11 is a difficult par-4, followed by the famous par-3 12th hole encompassed in blooming azaleas. Amen Corner finishes up at the par-5 13th where players can move up or down the leaderboard significantly. The name comes from Sports Illustrated writer Herbert Warren Wind who coined the term in the 1950s.
2. Azalea: This flowering shrub is synonymous with the Masters. Its white, pink, and red blooms can be found all over the golf course.
3. Butler Cabin: There are several cabins on-site at Augusta National, but the Butler Cabin is arguably the most well-known. This cabin is the setting for the winner’s interview every year. It’s also where the Masters championship slips on their green jacket for the first time!
4. Eisenhower Tree: Loblolly pines are found everywhere around Augusta National. But the Eisenhower Tree is the most famous of them all. Or, was the most famous. An ice storm in 2014 damaged the tree so severely that it had to be removed. The tree received its name from former President Dwight D. Eisenhower who wanted the tree removed because of how often he hit it!
5. First and Second Nine: The front and back sides of the golf course.
6. Green Jacket: A green blazer that Augusta National members and Masters championships receive.
7. Hogan Bridge: Located at the 12th hole, Hogan Bridge takes players over Rae’s Creek to the 12th green. The bridge is named after Ben Hogan in honor of his four-round total (274) in 1953.
8. Ike’s Pond: Ike’s Pond was built after a suggestion by former President Dwight D. Eisenhower and is located on the par-3 course at Augusta National.
9. Magnolia Lane: The stunning entrance to Augusta National. It’s a narrow driveway lined with magnolia trees.
10. Nelson Bridge: This is the bridge that connects the 13th tee to the fairway. It was named for Byron Nelson after he carded a 2 on 12 and a 3 on 13 in 1937. He went on to win the Masters that same year.
11. Patron: Spectator, fan.
12. Pimento Cheese Sandwich: The Masters’ signature sandwich that features tasty pimento cheese stuffed between slices of white bread.
13. Rae’s Creek: The body of water that flows behind the 11th green and in front of the 12th green.
14. Sarazen Bridge: This bridge was the first one ever to be dedicated to a player. It’s named for Gene Sarazen to commemorate his albatross on the 15th hole in 1935 that ultimately led to his Masters victory. A plaque was erected in his honor in 1955.
15. Second Cut: The rough.
