Augusta National Chairman Previews 90th Masters Tournament

Ridley discusses new initiatives, honors past champions, and touts course conditions ahead of golf's premier event.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 12:11am

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting breaking down the Augusta National golf course into sharp, overlapping geometric planes of green fairways, white bunkers, and the iconic clubhouse, capturing the essence of the Masters Tournament in a cubist style.The iconic Augusta National golf course, home of the Masters Tournament, is deconstructed into a cubist masterpiece capturing the tournament's rich history and enduring legacy.Augusta Today

In his annual pre-tournament address, Augusta National Chairman Fred Ridley highlighted several key developments for the club and the 90th Masters Tournament, including plans for a new TGR Learning Lab, the reopening of the community-focused Patch golf course, and tributes to past champions Fuzzy Zoeller and Tiger Woods.

Why it matters

The Masters is one of the most prestigious events in golf, and the chairman's address provides important insight into the club's priorities, community engagement, and plans for the future of the tournament and the sport.

The details

Ridley opened by honoring past champions, including Fuzzy Zoeller's 1979 Masters victory and Tiger Woods' decision to step away from the game for personal reasons. He then discussed plans to break ground on a new TGR Learning Lab to provide STEAM education and workforce development opportunities for underserved youth. Ridley also celebrated the reopening of Augusta's municipal golf course, The Patch, which will include a new nine-hole short course called The Loop. Finally, Ridley assured that the course is in excellent condition despite recent inclement weather, and is ready to host the 90th edition of the Masters Tournament.

  • The Masters Tournament will begin on Thursday, April 10, 2026.
  • The honorary starters will tee off at 7:25 AM on Thursday morning.
  • Groundbreaking on the new TGR Learning Lab is planned for later this year.
  • The opening of the new learning lab is targeted for 2028.

The players

Fred Ridley

The chairman of Augusta National Golf Club, which hosts the annual Masters Tournament.

Fuzzy Zoeller

A former Masters champion who won the tournament in his debut in 1979, a feat that has not been repeated since.

Tiger Woods

A five-time Masters champion who is taking a break from the game for personal reasons.

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What they’re saying

“Fuzzy's love of the game and vibrant personality endeared him to golf fans everywhere. We will miss him.”

— Fred Ridley, Augusta National Chairman

“I would like to add that we fully support Tiger's recent decision to focus on his health and well-being.”

— Fred Ridley, Augusta National Chairman

What’s next

The 90th Masters Tournament will begin on Thursday, April 10, 2026, with the honorary starters teeing off at 7:25 AM.

The takeaway

The Masters remains one of the most prestigious events in golf, and Augusta National is continuing to invest in the local community and the future of the sport through initiatives like the new TGR Learning Lab. Despite recent challenges, the course is primed and ready to host another edition of this historic tournament.