The Rules for the PGA Masters

The Masters golf tournament is one of the four majors of the PGA season, drawing one of the strongest fields of the year. The tournament is hosted annually at Augusta National, known for its narrow fairways, unforgiving rough and challenging greens. In order to play, and win, the opening event of golf's yearly Grand Slam, understanding the rules is critical.

  1. How to Get In

    • In order to qualify for the Masters, a golfer will need to have fulfilled at least one of the requirements set forth by Augusta National and the PGA. Former Masters champions are the only players given lifetime exemptions into the tournament. A golfer who wins any of the other three major championships (PGA Championship, British Open, U.S. Open) qualifies for the next five Masters competitions. The winner of the Players Championship -- considered the biggest tournament outside of the Grand Slam -- is given a three-year exemption. The rest of the spots are filled based on specific tournament victories, previous results in the majors, or position on the world rankings or money list. Certain amateur and international champions are also invited to the competition.

    Tournament Rules

    • The Masters tournament follows the same general rules as the other three majors, and the majority of other PGA events. The event is four rounds in length, with the player recording the lowest score after 72 holes declared the winner. There are a few differences with regards to the Masters field. Rather than play the first two rounds in groups of three like most PGA tournaments, the Masters sends players off in pairs because the starting field is smaller. Additionally, most tournaments allow the top 70 players (plus ties) to make the 36-hole cut. The Masters reduces the field to just the top 44 players, plus anyone else within 10 shots of the lead. Should there be a tie after 72 holes, a sudden-death playoff format is used.

    Spectator Rules

    • Those in attendance at Augusta National have rules to follow, too. The official website lists a number of objects that are banned on the grounds during tournament play, including cell phones, backpacks, cameras (allowed only during practice rounds), banners and lawn chairs. Spectators, and everyone else, are prohibited from soliciting autographs from players during practice and tournament rounds, though they're permitted to do so at designated areas before and after players complete their rounds. Proper attire is to be worn at all times (no tank tops or short shorts, for example). Anyone who breaks any of these rules will see his spectator pass revoked, and will be asked to leave the tournament grounds.