GOLFING fans were all set for another four days of golfing nirvana from Augusta National.
Tiger Woods won last year’s Green Jacket in one of sport’s greatest comeback stories – but coronavirus has struck to leave the 2020 tournament cancelled.
Traditionally the first Major of the year, golfing greats are instead being forced to quarantine as the world tackles the global COVID-19 epidemic.
When was The Masters cancelled due to coronavirus?
Chiefs had originally been optimistic that this year’s Masters would not be influenced by the virus outbreak.
So much so that on Wednesday March 5, Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley reassured fans with a statement reading: “The safety, health and well-being of everyone is our top priority at Augusta National Golf Club.
“We will continue to review the available facts and information with the experts and authorities, establish precautions and take appropriate action to ensure the safety of all involved.
“We are asking that everyone follow the preventative actions advised by the CDC to mitigate the spread of any virus. In addition, we strongly encourage all those travelling to Augusta, Georgia, to become knowledgeable of the most recent travel protocols and restrictions.”
But on March 13, with a four-week shutdown by the PGA Tour declared, Augusta bigwigs were forced to act and cancel the tournament.
The plan is to stage the event later in the year – probably in September, after the big money FedEx Cup events have finished.
A further statement read: “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.”
When was it scheduled to take place?
The Masters tournament was due to take place between Thursday, April 9 and Sunday, April 12.
As always, it will be held at the Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia, in the United States.
Last year’s winner Tiger Woods is looking to become the first person to retain the title since 2002 – a feat he achieved – and land his sixth overall victory.
The tournament will likely be played at a later date, but that hasn’t been decided with the current coronavirus situation.
How can I watch it on TV?
When the tournament is re-arranged, you’ll be able to watch every day live on Sky Sports Golf and Main Event.
If you want to stream the action, pick up a Now TV pass from £5.99 and watch on your TV, games console, tablet, mobile or computer.
Unlike previous years, after the cut on day two fans will not be able to catch any live action on the BBC, although they will run highlights in the evenings.
