On April 1st, Augusta National treated fans to the first glimpse of the new 13th tee! The brand new photo of the 13th tee reveals a radically tightened tee shot on the 13th and the insertion of a newly renovated Par-3 course.
However, reactions from fans have been polarizing. Many golf enthusiasts believe the new 13th tee will cause some “problems” in the upcoming tournament.
A lot of fans not impressed by the change on No. 13
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The organizers have extended the No.13 by 35 yards, and the tee box has been raised 8 yards over 2022. The club has offered some insight into the new changes.
A first look at the new 13th tee. 👀
(📸: @TheMasters) pic.twitter.com/PsDlpBygtf
— Golf Digest (@GolfDigest) March 31, 2023
Many fans are far from impressed, as they are calling it too “narrow” and even terming it as “intimidating.”
Wow! You hitting out of a tunnel. https://t.co/Nl2aGhMqsF
— Tim Grant (@tagrant13) March 31, 2023
Is it really that narrow as the photo appears?
— USTrademarkLaw (@JoeDreitler) March 31, 2023
After seeing the photo, one fan wondered if the course was actually Augusta. Meanwhile, some fans believe the new 13th tee will cause problems for the competing golfers.
Not a huge fan of the narrow shoot they made. Open that up and let them sling it.
— M.G. living in the twittir shadows (@ssmuskrat) March 31, 2023
Does this even look or feel like Augusta?
— Sir. Charles Edward III (@CharleseddySir) March 31, 2023
This is going to cause PROBLEMS! https://t.co/0hmUElPQ9s
— A (@Aaron97___) March 31, 2023
Organizers reveal the real reason behind the changes
Augusta National has provided golf enthusiasts with context on the new changes. The club has installed trees and ornamentals to ensure the intimate setting of the golf course. Per the organizers, it is one of the few spots on the course which separates players and caddies from the patrons.
Augusta National has also incorporated new and improved TV camera positions. Other heating and cooling elements have also been added to “improve agronomics” on the 13th tee. According to the organizers, the new changes take the course closer to the original vision of architect, Allister MacKenzie and founder, Bobby Jones.
Spectators can also expect notable changes to the Par-3 course, the site of the annual Masters Par-3 contest. Attendees can expect a better viewing experience at the Par-3 course this year.
First look at the renovated Par 3 course. #themasters pic.twitter.com/H8YyPCrOfX
— The Masters (@TheMasters) April 1, 2023
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The club has also erected a larger building near the 5th hole of the Par-3 course for “merchandise, concessions, and restrooms.”
With the Masters kicking off in a matter of days, viewers and spectators can expect great excitement. Amidst the ongoing tussle between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, it will be fascinating to witness who clinches the coveted green jacket.
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Who do you think will emerge victorious at the Masters this year? Which golfer are you rooting for to win the tournament? Let us know in the comments below!
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