The Masters Champions Dinner is not just another fancy meal; it's a yearly tradition that started with legendary golfer Ben Hogan back in 1952. Every year during Masters week, this unique get-together brings all living past champions of the Masters Tournament to Augusta National Golf Club, along with the club’s chairman, for a dinner where the menu is picked by the reigning champion. In 2024, Scottie Scheffler took the reins once again, showcasing his fondness for Tex-Mex cuisine with a menu that included Cheeseburger Sliders, Firecracker Shrimp, Texas-Style Chili, and Warm Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookies. This reflects both personal tastes and regional influences from his Texas roots.
This tradition isn't just about the food; it's a nod to golf's rich history and the brotherhood among its elite players. Over the years, we've seen a huge variety of menus. Who can forget when Tiger Woods, at just 21 years old, became the youngest host and kept it simple with burgers and fries? On the other hand, Jack Nicklaus, at 46, brought his own style as the oldest to host the dinner.
Through the years, meals have ranged from Hideki Matsuyama's sushi and wagyu beef in 2022, honoring his Japanese heritage, to Phil Mickelson's Spanish paella in 2011 as a tribute to golfing legend Seve Ballesteros. Then there are the quirky ones like Bubba Watson, who amusingly replicated a “Chuck E. Cheese”-style menu twice.
This prestigious event keeps its doors tightly shut to the media, offering only brief peeks through limited photo ops. Each year brings a mix of culinary creativity and heartfelt connections. Sometimes, champions prefer the club's standard menu over the chosen dishes, but that's all part of the relaxed atmosphere.
A few quirky stories also add flavor to this historical gathering. Considering when Sandy Lyle donned a kilt in 1989 or the fact that Byron Nelson once praised Tiger Woods’ comfort food lineup, it's clear this event mixes playfulness with reverence.
In the world of golf, the Masters Champions Dinner isn't merely about what's on the plate; it's an embodiment of shared respect, regional pride, and innovative dining, all served among the legends of the game. Whether they opt for a hint of nostalgia or some international flair, each champion leaves their mark, continuing a much-loved tradition.