The three US stars aiming to break the Masters rookie curse at Augusta this week
Fuzzy Zoeller was the last rookie to the Masters back in 1979
The Masters is notoriously unforgiving for debutants, with a first-time participant rarely donning the coveted Green Jacket. However, this year’s tournament features a newcomer whose impressive résumé suggests he might defy convention: Chris Gotterup. The 26-year-old arrives at Augusta National with an exceptional four PGA Tour victories already under his belt, making him only the third player since World War II to make his Masters debut with such a distinguished record.
Gotterup has secured two wins this year alone, at the Sony Open and Phoenix Open, and also claimed the Scottish Open last year, which earned him a spot at both the British Open and the Masters. He joins fellow high-ranked first-timers Ben Griffin and Jacob Bridgeman, all three currently within the world’s top 20. The historical odds are stacked against him; Fuzzy Zoeller in 1979 was the last rookie to win the Masters, and before him, only Gene Sarazen in the event’s second year achieved the feat.
Yet, Gotterup remains focused on the present. Jacob Bridgeman has moved into the world’s top 20 (AP) "Just embracing the whole experience," he said. "Trying to take it all in and enjoy it while also trying to go out there and compete and give it everything I’ve got.
" He deliberately avoided visiting Augusta National until he qualified, stating: "I don’t think I’ve actually ever declined an invite. I don’t know if I’ve been invited. So you can’t turn down nothing.