Masters 2026: Jack Nicklaus roasts himself for rough opening tee shot: 'I don't want to kill anybody'
Ben Jared
AUGUSTA, Ga. — Jack Nicklaus has put together an incredible Masters highlight reel during his career, but you probably won't see Thursday's ceremonial tee shot on there.
The six-time Masters champ got the tournament festivities started with a quick hook off the first tee that he could only laugh at. "You didn't take a practice swing," Tom Watson said before drilling a tight draw down the middle. "That was your problem."
Of course, a guy who has won six green jackets deserves a break—especially one who is 86 years old. Nicklaus remained a good sport about it at his press conference after.
"It's always nice to have Fred introduce you and everything, and I walked up to the tee, and I said, well, I'll have Jackie tee the ball up so I don't fall over," Nicklaus said. "I said spread out on both sides because I don't want to kill anybody. If it had been a little closer, I might have. I got it high enough to hit it about 110 yards over their heads on the left. I don't know what was running through my mind other than not hurt anybody, Rob. But it's always a great privilege and an honor to do that and start off the Masters."
Nicklaus also mentioned that he recently underwent carpal tunnel surgery, so, again, let's give this man a pass. But it did prompt a question of how long he wants to stay in his role of being an honorary starter.
"As long as I can still hit the golf ball," Nicklaus said. "I played once this year, I played in February. I played once last year. I don't really play golf anymore. But it's such a nice ceremony, and it's a real honor to be invited. I hope to be able to do it as long as I can not kill anybody."
Sounds like a plan.