Masters eligibility?

Question

Can anyone tell me Agusta's retirement policy for returning champions?

I found a 2004 article that says returning champions (65 years old and younger) may play if they compete in 12 events on the tour (PGA & Champions) the previous year.

Gary Player is in the years event but he is over 65.

Please include any source for your answer.

Thanks and good luck - maybe you'll earn the 10 points.

Answer 1

Hey, Bill. That article predates the reinstatement of the lifetime exemption although I don't know exactly when that occurred. This was big news at the time as then-chairman, Hootie Johnson, sent letters to three former champions - Doug Ford, Billy Casper and g*y Brewer - informing them that the lifetime exemption had been withdrawn. It disenfranchised the guys whose longevity and unwillingness not to play (because their scores were quite high) motivated the decision and ultimately the letter. However, after complaints and to reduce a public relations mess, the lifetime exemption was later reinstated.

I'm sorry I don't have a better source as I'm going on what I remember but I've provided a reference that alludes to it. I could dig up an old Golf World or two, scan the pages and forward them via email but you get the idea I'm sure.

ADDED: 4/10, 7:30 CT ... To Nas88, the PGA Championship also allows all past champions to compete, regardless of age.

Answer 2

there's no age limit.. as long as you've won the masters before, you are eligible every year to play..

Answer 3

yes that is true for the other majors

but at the Masters all past champions are invited

since Hootie is no longer the chairman the new chairman can invite them all

The Masters go by the rules thye set up not the USGA