The Tradition Behind the Green Jacket

From the specially manicured grass, to the massive money won by the Masters Champion, the color green means success. The tradition of donning the Green Jacket means just that.

The Masters traditions date back to the first game played on the Augusta course in 1934.

This Green Jacket tradition began in 1949 when Sam Snead won his first of three Masters Championships. The Green Jacket, a men's dress blazer, is the official sports coat worn by the members of the Augusta National Golf Club. Members began wearing the Green Jackets in 1937 during the Masters Tournament.

Its purpose was practical in that fans in the crowd could easily spot a member and ask questions. Now, it's a top honor and prestigious 'trophy' of sorts.

By tradition, the winner of the previous year’s Masters Championship puts the Green Jacket on the current winner at the end of the tournament.

Each winner of the Masters Tournament automatically becomes an honorary member Augusta National. The winner keeps the Green Jacket for one year after their victory and then has to return it to the Club. However, any member is permitted to wear the Green Jacket whenever they return to the Club.