🌸 6 Things You Didn’t Know about this Year’s Masters (2025)
It’s that time of year again—azaleas in full bloom, pimento cheese sandwiches being devoured, and the soft whispers of Jim Nantz echoing through our living rooms. The 2025 Masters is here, and whether you're a die-hard fan or just in it for the drama, there’s something undeniably special about this week at Augusta.
1. No Tiger This Year—And It Feels Strange
For just the sixth time since 1995, Tiger Woods will not be teeing it up at Augusta. He withdrew after rupturing his Achilles tendon during training earlier this year. While the game moves on, it’s hard to imagine a Masters without Tiger’s name on the board—and we’ll definitely miss the magic.
2. The youngest field in Masters history
This year’s field includes a record number of players under 25, showing just how much the next generation is shaking things up. The rise of young stars like Akshay Bhatia and Nicolai Højgaard is making Augusta feel more like a Gen Z takeover than a traditional showdown.
3. Augusta’s new bunker sand is causing buzz
For the first time in decades, Augusta’s famous bunkers have been resurfaced with a slightly different white silica sand, and players say it’s changing the way they play around the greens. Subtle? Maybe. But at the Masters, details matter.
4. The par-5 13th just got longer
After being lengthened in 2023, hole 13 (“Azalea”) is now playing at a beastly 555 yards, making that iconic risk-reward second shot a lot more “risk” and a little less “reward.” Expect more layups and less drama—unless someone gets brave on Sunday.
5. Augusta National is officially carbon neutral
Behind the scenes, Augusta National has made major strides in sustainability. This year marks their first as a certified carbon-neutral sporting event, thanks to smarter water usage, solar initiatives, and new offset programs. Pretty cool for a club built on tradition.
6. Phones are finally allowed (sort of)
In a move that surprised everyone, Augusta National is testing a limited phone policy this year for patrons on practice days. While phones are still banned during tournament rounds, this is the first time ever fans can snap their own photos on-site. Tradition is evolving—slowly, but surely.
🏆 Iron Lady Golf’s Top 5 (+1) Picks to Win the 2025 Masters
We asked our team and some of our community leaders to weigh in—so here’s our collective short list of who we think could make it happen this year.
1. Scottie Scheffler
Why we love him: Because the guy’s just built for Augusta. He’s unshakable, brutally consistent, and already owns a green jacket (2022). Plus, he just won The Players in March.
2. Rory McIlroy
Why we’re still rooting: Because we’re not giving up on the career Grand Slam. Rory’s game looks sharp, he’s more emotionally steady, and let’s be real—if he wins, there won’t be a dry eye in the house.
3. Xander Schauffele
Why he’s dangerous: Always lurking. Xander has had four top-10s at Augusta and is due for a breakthrough. He’s solid tee-to-green, sneaky good with the putter, and mentally tough.
4. Ludvig Ă…berg
Why he’s got our attention: After an electric runner-up finish in his first-ever Masters in 2024, the young Swede is back with even more experience. His calm presence and ball-striking precision make him a real threat to go one better this year.
5. Jon Rahm
Why it’s personal: The defending champ and now a face of LIV Golf still plays with a chip on his shoulder. Rahm’s game thrives under pressure, and he knows Augusta as well as anyone. A repeat is very much in play.
+1. Collin Morikawa
Why we’re adding him: Collin’s been trending upward and has the kind of ball-striking and course management that Augusta rewards. If his putter heats up, he could absolutely sneak into contention on Sunday.
