A general view of fallen trees on the 17th tee during the second round of the 2023 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 7, 2023, in Augusta, Georgia. Photo: AFP
Scared spectators at the Masters escaped without injury after three tall pine trees fell near them on Friday at the 2023 Masters Tournament. The incident occurred near the 17th tee shortly before second‑round play was stopped because of stormy weather. The trees crashed to the ground close to the crowd, but organizers said no one was hurt.
“Augusta National Golf Club can confirm that no injuries were reported from three trees that were blown over to the left of the No. 17 tee due to wind,” the club said in a statement. “The safety and well‑being of everyone attending the Masters Tournament will always be the top priority of the club. We will continue to closely monitor the weather today and through the tournament.”
Soon after the trees fell, organizers announced that play was halted and spectators were evacuated from the Augusta National course, which was being hit by gusting winds. An announcement warned that thunderstorms were approaching the area with heavy winds and lightning.
Towering pine trees are a trademark feature of the famed 7,545‑yard course, the world’s only layout to host a men’s major golf tournament every year. Players were taken off the course with 39 of them still needing to finish the second round, and the decision was later made to restart play on Saturday. AFP
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