[Kim Maengnyeong's Golf English Conversation] "Masters Tournament Story"

Augusta National Golf Club, the battleground of the Masters

'The Masters Tournament.'

It is the "dream stage" that all players want to participate in. This year, it will kick off on the night of the 7th (Korean time) at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia, USA. It is one of the four major championships on the PGA Tour, hosted by Augusta National Golf Club. Unlike other majors that change venues every year, it is held only at Augusta National Golf Club. Last year's total prize money was $11.5 million, and the defending champion is Hideki Matsuyama (Japan).

The Masters operates by invitation. Only about 100 players who meet the qualification criteria can participate. Once a player wins even once, they earn a lifetime invitation. This year, Korean players Seongjae Im (24), Siwoo Kim (27), and Kyung-hoon Lee (31) will compete. Phil Mickelson (USA), a three-time Masters champion, has withdrawn from participation following the 'Super Golf League (SGL) incident.' The Masters has a tradition where the defending champion dresses the winner in the 'Green Jacket.'

The tradition of wearing the green jacket started when Sam Snead (USA) won in 1949. The winner receives the 'Masters Trophy,' a silver trophy modeled after the clubhouse of Augusta National. The original trophy, made in 1961, is kept at the clubhouse, and a replica is given to the winner. The player with the most wins is Jack Nicklaus, who has six victories. Next are 'The Golf Emperor' Tiger Woods (5 wins) and Arnold Palmer (4 wins, both USA).

A: Who has won the most green jackets at Augusta?

B: Jack Nicklaus, nicknamed 'The Golden Bear,' has won six Masters Tournaments, the highest number to date.

A: Did Tiger Woods win the Masters 5 times?

B: Yes, he did. Woods has won the Masters tournament five times.

Written by Kim Maengnyeong, Golf Columnist