Jack Nicklaus’s Ceremonial Tee Shot at Augusta National: A Near Miss!

Jack Nicklaus gave Masters attendees a brief moment of concern on Thursday when his traditional opening tee shot at Augusta National veered dangerously close to the gallery. The legendary golfer, an 18-time major champion, issued a warning before his swing, and it proved to be well-founded.

“Oh boy, watch out,” Nicklaus, 86, cautioned as he prepared to tee off. “And I don’t mean that facetiously.” Unlike Gary Player’s 90-year-old shot, which found the center of the fairway, Nicklaus’s drive went left, flying low and narrowly clearing the heads of the spectators.

“I said, ‘Spread out on both sides because I don’t want to kill anybody,’” Nicklaus explained afterward. “If it’d been a little closer I might have.” Tom Watson, 76, completed the ceremonial tee shots with a well-placed drive down the middle.

Health Concerns and Continued Tradition

Nicklaus expressed his desire to continue participating in this cherished tradition for as long as possible. Recently recovering from carpal tunnel surgery approximately six weeks ago, the six-time Masters champion admitted he wasn’t sure if he’d be able to make the swing.

“I was worried about being able to hold onto the golf club and hurt somebody,” he said. “I’m fortunate that I got it over somebody’s head. I didn’t hit it very well, but I got it over their heads and didn’t hurt anybody. As long as I can still hit the golf ball.” He revealed he only played golf once last year and again in February.

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“It’s such a nice ceremony, and it’s a real honor to be invited,” Nicklaus added. “I hope to be able to do it as long as I can without hurting anyone.”

The Associated Press contributed to this report.