The Masters Tournament has been postponed over concerns about the coronavirus pandemic, Augusta National Golf Club announced Friday morning.
Tournament chairman Fred Ridley issued a statement, which in part included his hope of holding the tournament at a later date.
“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.
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.”
The tournament’s announcement comes on the heels of the PGA Tour on Thursday canceling the final three rounds of the The Players tournament and the following three events.
The Masters tournament, originally scheduled for April 9-12, has been played year since 1945. The tournament was cancelled for three consecutive years due to World War II.
Tiger Woods is the defending champion at the Masters.
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