Masters 'Postponement Decision'... Disruption for the First Time in 75 Years Since World War II

Impact of COVID-19 Spread: "Health and Safety Are Top Priorities," New Schedule Expected in Second Half

Fred Ridley, Chairman of Augusta National

[Asia Economy Reporter Noo Rae Noh] The 'Masters Tournament,' known as the 'Masters Legends,' could not escape the impact of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

Fred Ridley, chairman of Augusta National, which organizes the tournament, announced on the 14th (Korean time), "Due to the risk of COVID-19, we have made the unfortunate decision to postpone the Masters," adding, "We are confident that this decision is appropriate given these extraordinary circumstances." This schedule change is the first in 75 years since the tournament was suspended in 1945 due to World War II. While expressing hope to safely hold the tournament in the future, no specific dates were disclosed.

The Masters was scheduled to be held over four days starting April 9 at Augusta National Golf Club in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. The spotlight was especially on the title defense of the 'resurrected golf emperor' Tiger Woods (USA). Augusta National, known for its conservative management policies, initially expressed intent to proceed despite the spread of COVID-19 but ultimately chose 'health and safety.' Augusta National is expected to set a new schedule in the second half of the year.

The PGA Tour was directly hit by COVID-19. After completing the first round of The Players Championship, known as the 'fifth major,' the tournament was suspended. Although it was initially planned to continue from the second round without spectators, the worsening COVID-19 situation led to a cancellation after players were notified via text messages. Additionally, the Valspar Championship on the 19th, the World Golf Championships (WGC) Series Dell Technologies Match Play on the 25th, and the Valero Texas Open on April 2 were all canceled.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.