AUGUSTA, Ga. — Every year, the Tuesday before the Masters Tournament tees off, an exclusive gathering takes place at Augusta National Golf Club—the Masters Champions Dinner. This storied tradition brings together past winners of the green jacket for a meal that’s as much about camaraderie as it is about cuisine. But what’s the history behind this event, and what’s on the menu? Let’s dive in.
The Origins of the Champions Dinner
The Masters Champions Dinner was introduced in 1952 by Ben Hogan, who wanted to honor the tournament’s past winners. The idea was simple: the defending champion would host a private dinner for fellow Masters champions, selecting the menu and footing the bill. Over the years, this tradition has evolved into one of the most anticipated events of Masters week, blending golf’s greatest legends with personal culinary flair.
As Golf Digest once noted, "The Champions Dinner is more than a meal—it’s a reunion of golf’s elite, a night where legends share stories over dishes that reflect their heritage and tastes." From Arnold Palmer’s steak and potatoes to Tiger Woods’ cheeseburgers and milkshakes, the menu choices often reveal as much about the champion as their swing.
Notable Menu Highlights
Each year, the defending champion has the honor of crafting the menu, often drawing inspiration from their hometown or personal favorites. Here are some standout dishes from past dinners:
- 1998 (Tiger Woods): Cheeseburgers, chicken sandwiches, french fries, and milkshakes—a nod to his college days.
- 2004 (Mike Weir): Elk, wild boar, and Arctic char, showcasing Canadian flavors.
- 2017 (Danny Willett): A British-themed spread featuring Yorkshire pudding and mini cottage pies.
- 2022 (Hideki Matsuyama): A Japanese feast with sushi, wagyu beef, and miso soup.
- 2023 (Scottie Scheffler): Texas-style BBQ, including ribs, brisket, and fried shrimp.
The menu isn’t just about food—it’s a reflection of the champion’s journey. As Phil Mickelson once said, "Choosing the menu is like telling your story. It’s a chance to share a piece of yourself with the guys who’ve walked the same path."
The 2024 Menu: Jon Rahm’s Spanish Feast
This year, defending champion Jon Rahm has curated a Spanish-inspired menu, paying homage to his roots. The 2024 Masters Champions Dinner will feature:
- Tapas: Jamón Ibérico, chorizo, and tortilla española.
- Main Course: Chuletón (bone-in ribeye steak) with piquillo peppers.
- Dessert: Basque cheesecake with a hint of vanilla.
- Drinks: A selection of Spanish wines, including Rioja.
Rahm’s menu is a celebration of his heritage, and it’s already generating buzz. As Golf Channel reported, "Rahm’s selection is a bold departure from traditional American fare, bringing the flavors of Spain to Augusta’s hallowed grounds."
The Unwritten Rules and Traditions
While the dinner is a relaxed affair, there are a few unwritten rules. Champions are expected to attend unless physically unable, and the dress code is typically "Augusta casual"—think blazers and slacks. The evening often includes toasts, storytelling, and good-natured ribbing among golf’s greats.
One of the most memorable moments came in 2016, when Jordan Spieth jokingly served "Tiger’s milkshakes" as a nod to Woods’ 1998 menu. As Spieth later recalled, "It was all in good fun. Tiger laughed, and the room erupted. That’s what this night is about—respect and camaraderie."
A Night Like No Other
The Masters Champions Dinner is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of golf’s history and the bond between its greatest players. From Hogan’s humble beginnings to Rahm’s Spanish feast, the tradition continues to evolve while honoring the spirit of the game.
As Jack Nicklaus once put it, "The dinner is a reminder that no matter how many green jackets you’ve won, you’re part of a family. And like any family, we gather to share food, stories, and a love for this game."
So, as the 2024 Masters gets underway, keep an eye out for the buzz around Rahm’s menu. Whether it’s the chuletón or the cheesecake, one thing’s for sure—this year’s dinner will be another unforgettable chapter in Masters lore.
