The Masters’ green jacket is widely regarded as one of sport’s most prized symbols, awarded each year to the champion at Augusta National Golf Club. More than just a piece of clothing, it represents excellence, tradition and membership in an exclusive group of golf’s greats.
The practice of wearing green jackets at the tournament dates back to the late 1930s, when the coats were first used by club members, and since 1949 they have been presented to Masters winners at the conclusion of the championship.
Rory McIlroy, who captured the green jacket in 2025 with a dramatic playoff victory that completed his career Grand Slam, has spent the past year appreciating both its rarity and the responsibilities that come with being the reigning champion.
As he returns to compete in the 2026 Masters next week, McIlroy is set to take part in one of golf’s most cherished rituals: placing the jacket on the shoulders of the next winner if he does not repeat.
Only the current champion is permitted to temporarily remove the jacket from Augusta National’s property, a rule that underscores its symbolic importance. Past winners may enjoy the privilege of wearing it at club events, but the garment is ultimately stored at Augusta and remains part of the tournament’s rich heritage.
The green jacket’s history reveals how its role has evolved over time. Originally used to distinguish club members from patrons, it quickly became the hallmark of championship success. Today, it is a defining feature of the Masters, linking modern champions to legends of the sport, and adding a layer of tradition to golf’s most celebrated major.
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