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.
"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.
“I have gotten offered to come watch the tournament from sponsors or from whoever it may be, and I said I can’t go over there until I play. Or else if I’m retired, then I can go over."
Fellow American Bridgeman, who triumphed at Riviera in February, has a longer history with Augusta, having visited as an autograph-seeking 10-year-old in 2010 and later playing the course as a Clemson freshman.
"I remember teeing it up on (No.) 1 and there was not a soul around and I was super nervous. A little bit more comfortable this time. I don’t know what it is. I’m kind of in tournament mode," Bridgeman reflected.
Ben Griffin, another US debutant, has also familiarized himself with the course, visiting in November and again last week.
He recalled iconic moments: "Tons of memories, all the iconic shots that have been hit. The one that comes to mind first is Tiger Woods’ chip on 16 with the dramatic Nike symbol. I feel like every hole there’s like a shot that’s been hit by someone that I’ve either heard of or seen on television that I kind of remember."
During practice rounds, Griffin played the back nine, while Gotterup navigated the front nine alongside veteran Justin Rose.
Bridgeman’s group included 18-year-old Mason Howell, last year’s U.S. Amateur champion and a University of Georgia commit, who is also making his Masters debut.
Two-time Masters champion Bubba Watson, who finished tied for 20th in his first appearance, offered advice to the young contenders.
"There’s very few that’s won it the first time," Watson said. "But talent can take over and anybody can win because they’re good enough to get here, they’re good enough to win.
“Just enjoy it. You want your first one to be, just enjoy it, take it all in, try to learn some things and get ready for the next time you come around here."
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