Get ready for a legendary start to the 2026 Masters. The iconic trio of Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, and Gary Player will once again serve as honorary starters, officially opening the tournament with their ceremonial tee shots down the hallowed first fairway at Augusta National. It will mark the fourth consecutive year these three titans of the game have shared this honor.

This is one of golf's most cherished and exclusive traditions. In total, only 11 players have ever been bestowed the title of honorary starter. The group for 2026 brings a staggering collective legacy of 11 Masters victories—Nicklaus with a record six green jackets, Player with three, and Watson with two. Nicklaus, the Golden Bear, has been a fixture in the role since 2010, with the Black Knight, Gary Player, joining him in 2012. Tom Watson, an eight-time major champion, added his name to the prestigious list in 2022.

The tradition itself has deep roots, informally beginning in 1941 with amateur great Francis Ouimet. The practice was later formalized in 1963, creating the poignant scene we witness today—a moment that connects the modern game to its storied past and sets the stage for a new champion to claim their own piece of history.