Augusta National planning for limited attendance at 2021 Masters

The 2020 Masters Tournament was postponed from the spring to mid-November due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and plans to allow a reduced percentage of spectators onto the course for the competition were ultimately scrapped. 

On Tuesday, Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley explained in a prepared statement that officials are working on protocols "to include a limited number of patrons, provided it can be done safely" for this year's event held from April 5-11. 

“Following the successful conduct of the Masters Tournament last November with only essential personnel, we are confident in our ability to responsibly invite a limited number of patrons to Augusta National in April,” Ridley said. “As with the November Masters, we will implement practices and policies that will protect the health and safety of everyone in attendance. Nothing is, or will be, more important than the well-being of all involved. While we are disappointed that we will be unable to accommodate a full complement of patrons this year, we will continue our efforts to ensure that all who purchased tickets from Augusta National will have access in 2022, provided conditions improve.”

It's hoped that "a small number of patrons" will also be allowed to attend the Augusta National Women’s Amateur on April 3 and the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals on April 4. 

The Masters added that refunds will be offered to ticket holders not selected for this year's event.