The countdown to the iconic Masters Tournament is on, with only 24 days to go! As golf fans eagerly await this year’s action, it’s the perfect time to reflect on one of the sport’s most memorable moments—Tiger Woods’ phenomenal victory at the 2001 Masters Tournament. This remarkable win not only highlighted Woods’ incredible talent but also marked a significant milestone in golf history as he completed what is now famously known as the ‘Tiger Slam’.
Looking Back at the 2001 Masters
In 2001, Tiger Woods stood at the top of his game. He entered Augusta National in Georgia with immense pressure, having already won three major championships in a row. The stakes were high, but Woods delivered an unforgettable performance, finishing the tournament at 16 under par with a total score of 272. With this victory, he secured his second green jacket. His closest competitor, David Duval, trailed behind him by two strokes, finishing at 14 under par, while Phil Mickelson ended up in third place at 13 under par.
The Tiger Slam
This moment was particularly historic as it completed what is called the ‘Tiger Slam’, where Woods won four consecutive major titles. Winning the Masters was not just another title for Woods; it signified his dominance in the sport. With this win, he became the first golfer to earn over a million dollars from a single Masters, walking away with a whopping prize of $1,008,000, part of a total purse of $5,514,920.
Key Moments from the 2001 Masters
- Tiger Woods finished at 16 under par and won by two strokes.
- David Duval secured second place at 14 under par.
- Phil Mickelson came in third at 13 under par.
- Woods received the first-ever seven-figure Masters prize.
- No amateurs made the cut that year.
- There were no significant changes to the Augusta National course.
Who Was the Low Amateur?
In a tournament where no amateur golfers made the cut, it was an unusual sight indeed. The spotlight was entirely on the professionals, underscoring the incredible level of play that year, particularly from Woods and his peers.
Prize Money Breakdown
| Position | Player | Score | Prize Money |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | Tiger Woods | -16 | $1,008,000 |
| 2nd | David Duval | -14 | $588,000 |
| 3rd | Phil Mickelson | -13 | $352,000 |
Augusta National’s Timeless Challenge
The 2001 Masters also showed how Augusta National Golf Club holds its own challenges year after year. With its beautiful yet difficult course layout, it remained a true test for even the strongest golf athletes. While the 2001 tournament did not experience any major course changes, it still maintained its reputation as one of the toughest courses in professional golf.
Looking Ahead: Who to Watch This Year
As we gear up for the Masters in 2025, many eyes will be on players like Rory McIlroy, who recently won The Players Championship, building his momentum as he heads toward Augusta. The excitement is palpable, and golf fans everywhere can’t wait to see if another historic moment will unfold this year—perhaps even echoing the brilliance of Woods’ monumental win back in 2001.
