Augusta National's New Player Facility Ready for Masters

Augusta National Golf Club is set to welcome players to the Masters Tournament with a newly completed Player Services Building. The facility, boasting a wide range of amenities, has already received high praise from players like defending champion Rory McIlroy.

A First-Class Experience for Competitors

Masters Chairman Fred Ridley stated last year that the improvement would provide competitors with facilities “from arrival until departure unlike anything in sports.” Players access the building via an underground garage and are immediately greeted by a hallway showcasing Alister MacKenzie’s architectural cross-section of each hole on the course.

Exclusive Access and Amenities

The new building isn’t just for players. Access is extended to their families, caddies, trainers, and support staff. The facility includes a fully equipped fitness center and a dedicated recovery room to support peak performance.

Inside the Player Services Building

Rory McIlroy described the building to the AP as “IN-CREDIBLE,” noting it will house the main locker room. While champions will continue to use the Champions Locker Room, the new building offers a significant upgrade in amenities.

A Walk Through Golf History

The hallway features a framed letter signed by McIlroy, alongside golfing legends Tiger Woods, Arnold Palmer, and Jack Nicklaus. The player lounge pays tribute to Bobby Jones, displaying his 1930 Grand Slam trophies, loaned from the Atlanta Athletic Club and scheduled for return after the tournament.

Attention to Detail

Even the restrooms feature historical touches, including a 1960 letter from co-founder Clifford Roberts announcing the replacement of the Wednesday golf clinic with the Par-3 Contest.

Dining and Viewing Areas

The top floor houses the Magnolia Dining Room, capable of seating nearly 150 people. An adjacent terrace provides seating for another 150, overlooking the practice area. The dining area includes a full menu, buffet, and bar service.

Enhanced Broadcast Coverage

As players transition to the range or course, they will pass images of the last five Masters winners. A new camera has also been installed to capture players entering and exiting the locker room for television broadcasts, similar to practices used in Grand Slam tennis tournaments.

About the Author

This report was contributed by Max Schreiber, a golf writer for Sports Illustrated. Schreiber joined SI in October 2024, previously working with the Golf Channel, RyderCup.com, and FanSided. He also has experience as a producer for Newsday and holds a degree in communications and journalism from Quinnipiac University.