The Golden Bear, the winner of a record six Green Jackets, returned as an Honorary Starter to get the 81st Masters Tournament underway alongside his good friend, Gary Player, a three-time Masters Champion. Arnold Palmer, a four-time winner of the Masters, was remembered in a special ceremony before Nicklaus and Player hit their tee shots. Palmer’s Green Jacket was rested on a chair and a moment of silence was held, prompting tears of remembrance by fellow “Big Three” members Nicklaus and Player. The Golden Bear tipped his hat in a final salute—an iconic image that has since gone viral.
Masters champion Jack Nicklaus pays tribute to Masters champion Arnold Palmer during the Honorary Starter Tradition at the Masters.
Courtesy Augusta National
Courtesy Augusta National
