In 2005, the tension was palpable as Tiger Woods’ Nike ball tracked towards the 16th hole at Augusta National. Its momentum slowed to a pause for a moment, and then – with one more revolution – it revealed the iconic Nike swoosh and dropped into the cup.

As the golf world descends on Augusta National Golf Club for the 2025 Masters Tournament, The Athletic's writers have thoughts and opinions.

Of the 35 chairs reserved for past champions, 32 were occupied. Only Woods, Vijay Singh and Sandy Lyle were not in attendance.