No duplicates: Masters sees longest streak ever without repeat champion
Eleven years. Eleven different champions.
From Adam Scott in 2013 to Jon Rahm in 2023, no one has won multiple times — the longest streak in tournament history.
“One word: Tiger,” said Shane Lowery, who’s competing in his ninth Masters this week. “And before Tiger you had Jack. Those guys won (11) times. There wasn't much room for anybody else.”
Nicklaus left Magnolia Lane in green at least once in the 1960s, 70s and 80s. Tiger did the same in the 90s, 2000s and 2010s.
And when Woods went 14 April’s between jackets, Phil Mickelson triumphed three times between 2004 and 2010.
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Prior to the current streak, the longest stretch of different winners was seven years from 1953 to 1959.
“Augusta is one of the courses for horses, so it’s pretty surprising,” said Geoff Ogilvy, winner of the 2006 U.S. Open and who’s commentating for ESPN this week. “I think people will point to the depth of talent right now.”
Jordan Spieth came close to multiple victories, winning in 2015 and having a five-shot lead with nine to play in 2016.
In addition to being runner-up in 2016, Spieth has top-5 finishes in 2014, 2018, 2021 and 2023.
“It’s hard to win around here,” Harris English said. “Bottom line: You need breaks to go your way. And when you win once, there’s the pressure to do it again; to do it more.”
Lowry echoed Ogilvy’s thoughts, saying, “The top 20 in the world is as deep as it’s ever been. I don’t think there’s ever been depth like this.”
When asked if he hopes the trend of different champions continues this week, Lowery said, “I hope it’s me. And if it’s not me, it better be Rory.”
This article originally appeared on Athens Banner-Herald: The Masters has longest streak ever without repeat champion
