Golf fans can breathe a sigh of relief.
Longtime Augusta National architectural consultant Tom Fazio is making assurances that the course will be rehabilitated from the damage sustained during Hurricane Helene in time for the 2025 Masters.
“They (Augusta National) have the resources and the abilities to adjust to the conditions there. I would imagine you won’t know anything happened by April,” Fazio said in an interview with Sports Illustrated.
“Having trees fall on your green, what does that mean? You pick up the trees, you fill in the divots and holes they left. Then you re-sod and you’re ready to go.”
Earlier this month, photos went viral showing a fair amount of downed trees across the course.
Fazio recognized that compared to people who lost much more in the hurricane, Augusta National was in a good spot.
“But people have lost their homes and lost their lives. Lost their cars and their possessions and that is what is important. A putting green at Augusta or anywhere can always be fixed,” Fazio continued.
He expressed gratitude for his position of being affiliated with such an iconic course and club.
“It’s such a special place and special feeling to me and my family. I’m honored and privileged to be working. I never take it for granted and always work hard because nothing is automatic,” Fazio said.
His expectation is that Augusta National and The Masters will remain as timeless for future generations as for the past 100-plus years.
“I think it will stand the test of time no matter what happens,” Fazio said.
Masters chairman Fred Ridley previously announced that The Masters would indeed proceed according to schedule in 2025.