Everyone who has the privilege of returning to Augusta National year in and year out has their own annual tradition — something they do every time they step on property.
Jim Nantz of CBS Sports hops in a golf cart and heads down to Amen Corner, taking in one of the most beautiful places in the world and reminding himself of how grateful he is for the opportunity to call a ‘Tradition Unlike Any Other.’
For World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, who has won two of the last three Masters, his annual custom revolves around his family and close friends.
Each year, on the Sunday before tournament week, former champions have the honor of inviting guests to join them for a practice round. Last year, Scheffler asked his sisters to join him. This year, his mother will accompany him.
“I think that day is a good day for me to soak in being back at the Masters, enjoy the memories, and have some fun with a family member or close friend and just enjoy the golf course, enjoy the day before the workweek starts on Monday,” Scheffler said Wednesday.
“I kind of try to get everything out of the way on Sunday and get all the lore and everything that goes with being at Augusta National, kind of get that out of the way and settle into a tournament week.”
Before he does that, though, Scheffler hands out an award at the Drive, Chip, and Putt. This event features young girls and boys, aged between seven and 15, competing in four separate age divisions. It tests skills in driving accuracy, chipping, and putting, all while inspiring the next generation to one day make it to The Masters. Last year, Akshay Bhatia became the first-ever player to compete in both the Drive, Chip, and Putt and the tournament itself.
“That’s always a fun thing for me to do and a fun thing that Augusta National does,” Scheffler added.
Jack Milko is a golf staff writer for SB Nation’s Playing Through. Follow him on X @jack_milko.
