The 2020 Masters Tournament has been postponed.
Augusta National Golf Club issued a statement on Friday from Chairman Fred Ridley postponing the Masters, as well the preceding Augusta National Women's Amateur and the Drive, Chip and Putt Finals.
The statement reads:
"On Wednesday, March 4, we issued a memo stating that our plans to host the Masters Tournament, the Augusta National Women’s Amateur and the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals had not changed. Unfortunately, the ever-increasing risks associated with the widespread Coronavirus COVID-19 have led us to a decision that undoubtedly will be disappointing to many, although I am confident is appropriate under these unique circumstances.
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"Considering the latest information and expert analysis, we have decided at this time to postpone the Masters Tournament, the Augusta National Women’s Amateur and the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals.
"Ultimately, the health and well-being of everyone associated with these events and the citizens of the Augusta community led us to this decision. We hope this postponement puts us in the best position to safely host the Masters Tournament and our amateur events at some later date.
"We will continue to work with the World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Office of the Governor, the Georgia Department of Public Health, the City of Augusta and all other local authorities. We are grateful to all of these entities for their exceptional efforts and guidance.
"We recognize this decision will affect many people, including our loyal patrons. Your patience as we make every effort to communicate effectively and efficiently is appreciated, and we will share any additional information as soon as it becomes available.
"As COVID-19 continues to impact the lives of people everywhere, we seek your understanding of this decision and know you share our concern given these trying times. Thank you for your faithful support."
As stated in the memo, a little more than a week ago, Augusta National planned to host the events as anticipated. However, with rapidly accelerating cancellations and changing conditions on the ground, Augusta National made the decision to postpone -- not cancel -- these events.
Augusta National could look at hosting the events at a later date in the spring. However, Augusta National Golf Club is typically closed from late May until early October, as the club prefers to make improvements during this time, when the overseed for the Masters dies out and Bermudagrass becomes more dominant.