Amateur Jackson Herrington struggles with nerves in Masters Round 1

The 19-year-old played several practice rounds but couldn't overcome early jitters at Augusta National.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 9:16pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the fragmented motion of a golfer's swing, conveying the mental and physical challenges of competing at the highest level.The pressure of the Masters proved too much for amateur Jackson Herrington, whose swing and game were deconstructed by the weight of the moment.Augusta Today

Jackson Herrington, a 19-year-old amateur, had high hopes of performing well in his first Masters tournament. Despite playing five practice rounds at Augusta National before the event and two nine-hole warm-up sessions with pro Bryson DeChambeau, Herrington was unable to overcome his nerves when the competition began, struggling in the opening round.

Why it matters

The Masters is one of the most prestigious golf tournaments in the world, and amateur players like Herrington have a rare opportunity to compete against the top professionals. Overcoming nerves and pressure is a key challenge for amateurs looking to make an impact at Augusta National.

The details

Herrington said he wanted to play in front of the biggest crowds possible early in the week to prepare himself, but the reality of competing in his first major championship proved too much. He was unable to find his rhythm and posted a high score in the opening round.

  • Herrington played five practice rounds at Augusta National before Masters Week.
  • Herrington had two nine-hole warm-up sessions alongside pro Bryson DeChambeau.

The players

Jackson Herrington

A 19-year-old amateur golfer competing in his first Masters tournament.

Bryson DeChambeau

A professional golfer who Herrington played practice rounds with to prepare for the Masters.

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What they’re saying

“I want to play in front of the biggest crowds possible early in the week,”

— Jackson Herrington, Amateur Golfer

The takeaway

Herrington's struggles highlight the immense pressure and challenge that amateur golfers face when competing in their first major championship at a storied venue like Augusta National. Despite his preparation, the young player was unable to overcome his nerves, a common obstacle for amateurs looking to make an impact at the Masters.