Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tom Watson get 90th Masters underway at Augusta

The 90th edition of the tournament began with the traditional Honorary Starters ceremony, featuring three former champions: Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson and South Africa's Gary Player.

Nicklaus, an 86-year-old six-time Masters champion, has served as an Honorary Starter since 2010. 

Player, 90, a three-time winner, joined the role in 2012, while Watson, 76, a two-time champion, became part of the group in 2022.

Player was first to tee off, sending his shot straight down the fairway. Nicklaus followed, before Watson completed the ceremonial start with a drive that also found the fairway.

Following the trio's tee shots, Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley officially declared the tournament underway, marking the start of four days of competition as the field bids to claim the 2026 Masters title.

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