As the countdown begins for this year’s Masters Tournament, fans are buzzing with excitement, especially as they reflect on one of the most incredible moments in golf history: Tiger Woods’ triumph at the 2001 Masters. This isn’t just any tournament; it marked a milestone in Woods’ career and in the sport itself, bringing memories that still inspire new generations of golfers.
Who won the 2001 Masters?
In April 2001, history was made when Tiger Woods won the Masters Tournament for the second time. Woods finished strong, hitting a score of 16 under par, which totaled up to 272 strokes. His impressive victory was by two strokes over the competition, and it was a moment that encapsulated his dominance in golf.
Tiger’s Remarkable Achievement: The Tiger Slam
This tournament wasn’t just another win; it completed what is famously known as the “Tiger Slam.” This unique achievement meant that Woods held all four major championship titles at the same time. That’s right! He was not only the reigning Masters champion but also the 2000 U.S. Open, Open Championship, and PGA Championship winner. This feat showcased Woods’ extraordinary talent and skill.
2001 Masters Leaderboard: Key Players
As the tournament unfolded at the prestigious Augusta National Golf Club, it wasn’t just Woods who shone in the spotlight. David Duval claimed second place with a commendable score of 14 under par. Close behind him was Phil Mickelson, finishing third at 13 under par. The leaderboard showed not just Woods’ greatness, but the fierce competition he faced from other accomplished golfers.
Big Prize at Stake: Masters Purse and Prize Money
This year’s tournament also brought in a significant amount of prize money, with Woods taking home an incredible $1,008,000 as the winner. This was the first time in Masters history that a golfer won a seven-figure prize for first place. The entire purse for the tournament was an impressive $5,514,920, making the competition even more exhilarating.
A Bit of History: Amateur Participation in 2001
An interesting fact about the 2001 Masters is that no amateur golfers made the cut that year. This was a considerable point of discussion, as typically, the tournament sees some of the best amateur talents competing. However, the focus remained on the skilled professionals battling it out for the coveted green jacket.
Course Changes: Augusta National in 2001
While many might wonder if the course saw significant changes that year, the answer is no! The Augusta National course layout remained familiar to past competitors, allowing golfers to showcase their skills without drastic adjustments. This stability often plays a role in a golfer’s ability to perform optimally, and 2001 was no different.
Par 3 Contest Winner: Fun at Augusta
The 2001 Masters also featured the charming Par 3 Contest, which was won by David Toms. This contest adds a fun twist to the Masters week, allowing players to relax and enjoy the lighter side of the competition before tackling the serious challenges of the main tournament.
Did You Know? Fun Facts About the 2001 Masters
- This year was notable for Woods’ stunning performance, which has been celebrated in golf lore.
- Woods scored a remarkable stretch of birdies throughout the tournament, captivating fans worldwide.
- The event is remembered not just for the golf but for the electric atmosphere surrounding it.
As we look ahead to this year’s Masters, it’s impossible not to think about the legacy of athletes like Tiger Woods, who changed the game forever. With memories of the past fueling the excitement, fans can’t wait to see what happens next at Augusta National. Who will wear the green jacket this time around? Only time will tell, but the spirit of competition and the love for golf remain strong!
