Discover the greatest Masters Tournament playoff finishes in history! From Tiger Woods’ legendary shots to Larry Mize’s miracle chip-in, relive Augusta’s most thrilling golf showdowns. Read now for exclusive insights!
Table of Contents
- Introduction: Why Masters Playoff Finishes Are Unforgettable
- 1987: Larry Mize’s Miraculous Chip-in
- 1989: Nick Faldo’s Clutch Playoff Win
- 1990: Faldo Goes Back-to-Back in Dramatic Fashion
- 2005: Tiger Woods’ Unreal Chip and Playoff Victory
- 2017: Sergio García’s Redemption Story
- 2019: Tiger Woods' Historic Comeback
- 2022: Scottie Scheffler’s Dominance
- Why Augusta National is the Ultimate Test of Golf
- FAQs About The Masters Playoff Finishes
- Conclusion
Introduction: Why Masters Playoff Finishes Are Unforgettable
The Masters Tournament, hosted annually at Augusta National Golf Club, is one of the four major championships in professional golf. What makes the Masters unique is its rich tradition, legendary champions, and, of course, thrilling sudden-death playoffs that have produced some of the most unforgettable moments in golf history.
A playoff at the Masters is a test of nerves, precision, and resilience, and when two (or more) of the world's best golfers go head-to-head under the pressure of the green jacket, history is often made.
Let’s take a deep dive into the most epic Masters playoffs ever, from Larry Mize’s shocking chip-in to Tiger Woods’ legendary moments.
1987: Larry Mize’s Miraculous Chip-in
Key Details:
• Winner: Larry Mize
• Runner-up: Greg Norman
• Final Playoff Hole: 11th Hole (Sudden-Death)
The 1987 Masters is remembered for one of the most improbable shots in golf history. Augusta-born Larry Mize found himself in a sudden-death playoff against Greg Norman and Seve Ballesteros.
⛳ What Happened?
• After Ballesteros was eliminated on the first playoff hole, it was Mize vs. Norman.
• On the par-4 11th hole, Mize missed the green, leaving himself a 140-foot chip shot with little margin for error.
• Then, in what many call "The Miracle at Augusta," Mize holed the chip for birdie, sending the Augusta crowd into a frenzy and securing the green jacket in the most dramatic way possible.
🔗 More on the 1987 Masters: Official Masters Website
1989: Nick Faldo’s Clutch Playoff Win
Key Details:
• Winner: Nick Faldo
• Runner-up: Scott Hoch
• Final Playoff Hole: 11th Hole
The 1989 Masters saw Nick Faldo make history by becoming the first English golfer to win the Masters.
⛳ The Key Moment:
• After both players made bogey on the first playoff hole, they moved to the par-4 11th hole.
• With the green jacket on the line, Faldo sank a clutch 25-foot birdie putt, sealing the victory.
🏆 Fun Fact: Faldo would go on to defend his title in 1990, proving that his 1989 win was no fluke!
1990: Faldo's Back-to-Back Triumphs
Demonstrating resilience and skill, Nick Faldo defended his title in 1990, entering another playoff, this time against Raymond Floyd. On the second playoff hole, the 11th, Floyd found the water with his approach, while Faldo safely reached the green. Faldo's two-putt par earned him consecutive Masters victories, a rare and commendable achievement.
2005: Tiger Woods’ Unreal Chip and Playoff Victory
Key Details:
• Winner: Tiger Woods
• Runner-up: Chris DiMarco
• Final Playoff Hole: 18th Hole
Tiger Woods’ playoff win in 2005 was one of the most electrifying Masters finishes of all time.
⛳ Why It’s Legendary:
• Before the playoff, Tiger produced his famous chip-in on the 16th hole, with the ball dramatically hanging on the lip before dropping.
• Woods outlasted DiMarco in sudden death, clinching his fourth green jacket.
📺 Watch the Full Highlight Here: YouTube - 2005 Masters
2017: Sergio García's Long-Awaited Major
Sergio García, long considered one of the best players without a major championship, faced Justin Rose in a playoff at the 2017 Masters. After both players missed birdie opportunities on the first playoff hole, García capitalized on the next, sinking a birdie putt to finally capture his first major title, an emotional and popular victory among fans and peers alike.
2019: Tiger Woods' Historic Comeback
While not decided by a playoff, the 2019 Masters deserves mention for Tiger Woods' remarkable comeback. Overcoming personal and professional challenges, Woods secured his fifth green jacket, reigniting his career and inspiring countless fans worldwide.
2022: Scottie Scheffler’s Dominance
Key Details:
• Winner: Scottie Scheffler
• Runner-up: Rory McIlroy
• Final Score: -10
Scottie Scheffler’s victory in 2022 was one of the most dominant Masters performances in recent history. Unlike many dramatic playoffs, Scheffler led from start to finish, crushing the field and showing that he was the best golfer in the world.
🏌️ What Made This Win Special?
• He was ranked #1 in the world heading into the Masters.
• He built a five-shot lead heading into the final day.
• He became the first golfer since Tiger Woods (2001) to win four events in a single PGA season before the Masters.
Why Augusta National is the Ultimate Test of Golf
🏌️♂️ Augusta National is a course unlike any other. With its undulating greens, tight fairways, and unpredictable weather, winning the Masters requires mental toughness, shot-making skills, and the ability to perform under pressure.
Augusta’s Toughest Holes:
• Hole 12 (Golden Bell): A short par-3, but swirling winds make it a nightmare.
• Hole 18 (Holly): The perfect finishing hole for drama.
FAQs About The Masters Playoff Finishes
How many Masters playoffs have there been?
• As of 2025, 17 Masters tournaments have been decided by a playoff.
What was the longest Masters playoff?
• The 1966 Masters playoff lasted 18 holes, with Jack Nicklaus defeating Tommy Jacobs.
Who has won the most Masters titles?
• Jack Nicklaus holds the record with 6 Masters wins.
Conclusion
The Masters Tournament has delivered some of the most epic finishes in golf history.
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