The Masters has confirmed that it will issue refunds to those who had tickets for Monday’s practice round, which was marred by rain and stormy conditions.
Augusta National dealt a last-minute blow announcing on Sunday that the course would not open as scheduled at 8 a.m., only to reverse this announcement early Monday morning. Unfortunately, golf fans enjoyed barely four hours of action before play was halted with the sound of the klaxon.
The stoppage came just after 11 a.m. and swiftly led to patrons being ushered out with the promise of later updates. The day was officially called off at 3:55 p.m. local time with the announcement that Augusta National would remain closed.
Despite the Masters website stating that Augusta National may close due to bad weather and that no refunds would be given, officials reversed course on Monday. They stated that money spent on tickets would indeed be refunded.
“Due to the inclement weather and current forecast, Augusta National Golf Club will not reopen to our patrons on Monday,” the statement began. “Purchasers of Monday practice round tickets will be sent refunds in May and will be guaranteed the opportunity to purchase 2026 Monday practice round tickets. Further information will be included at the time of the refund.”
Fred Ridley, the boss at Augusta National, expressed his disappointment saying: “We are disappointed our patrons could not fully enjoy today’s practice round, but the safety of everyone at Augusta National is our highest priority and was the determining factor in the decision to cancel. We look forward to welcoming back our Monday patrons next year, as well as celebrating a wonderful 89th Masters Tournament ahead of us this week.”
(Image: Getty Images)
The annoyance over the called-off day wasn’t just felt by the spectators, two-time major champion Xander Schauffele was also miffed about missing out on fine-tuning his game. After an impressive 2024 where he clinched both the PGA Championship and Open Championship, the 31-year-old was asked if returning to the Masters felt any different.
However, his main gripe was not being able to access the practice facilities. “I’d like to think I feel similar,” Schauffele said. “Sitting here bummed out along with the rest of the field that we can’t practice today. I don’t really wake up and feel more accomplished. I feel like the same guy.”
When questioned about how such disruptions affect his preparation, he responded: It’s just part of — to me, whenever things get weird or difficult, I just remind myself that if you want to win one of the biggest events that we play in, you’ve got to deal with these things, and whoever deals with these things the best will win.”
- Source: NEWHD MEDIA
