How will The Masters be affected by the coronavirus?
The coronavirus has already caused the PGA Tour to move forward without any spectators for several weeks but will The Masters be affected?
For many golf fans, the PGA Tour season really begins with the first major championship of the year, The Masters, takes place. However, with the recent coronavirus outbreak that has suspended or canceled many major sports throughout the world, it’s right to question if the pandemic will have an effect on the event at Augusta National Golf Club.
While spectators and patrons were allowed at the first round of The PLAYERS Championship on Thursday, March 12, the PGA Tour released a statement saying that all rounds from Friday, March 13 through April 5 will be played without spectators in reaction to the coronavirus outbreak. However, the end of that spectator ban is notable as The Masters tees off the following week from April 9-12.
No decision has been made by the PGA Tour or Augusta National Golf Club as of yet regarding measures that could be taken at The Masters. However, it’s very much in play with the NBA, NHL, MLB, world soccer and college athletics all either suspending or canceling their seasons or major events due to the concerns surrounding the spread of the coronavirus.
As for what measures could potentially be taken, GOLF senior writer Alan Shipnuck received a message from a member of Augusta National that said the tournament will likely be played but limiting or banning spectators in addition to canceling practice rounds and special events like the Par-3 contest are all on the table right now. The message also said that an announcement is likely to come the week of March 16.
Just got a text from an Augusta National member: “I believe the tournament will be played. Discussions are ongoing. Limiting patrons seems likely. Might be none at all. Closing practice rounds, canceling the Par-3...everything is on the table. Expect an announcement next week.”
— Alan Shipnuck (@AlanShipnuck) March 12, 2020
When it comes to the health of golf fans and the players who will be on the course at The Masters, nothing can be taken lightly when it comes to the coronavirus. So while nothing is official yet, it does seem as if some measures will be taken at Augusta to ensure the safety of fans and golfers alike.
For more information about COVID-19, visit the CDC’s website or the website for your state’s Department of Health.