There’s a certain electricity in the air when the gates open at Augusta National during Masters week. For me, that feeling never fades, no matter how many times I walk these hallowed grounds. This year marks my 14th trip to the Masters, and even after all this time, the sense of tradition, excellence, and sheer magic is as strong as ever.
As a PGA Professional, I have the unique privilege of seeing the tournament from a different angle, not just as a fan, but as a fellow member of the profession. And on the first day of the 2025 Masters, that perspective gave me a front-row seat to one of the most unforgettable shots of the day. Let’s talk about Freddie.
Fred Couples. The man is more than just a Masters champion. Around here, they call him the mayor of Augusta National. There’s a reason for that. During the practice rounds, he’s everywhere, smiling, talking, catching up with friends old and new. It’s like watching someone stroll through a high school reunion where everyone else is just glad to see him. But Freddie isn’t just here to smile and reminisce. On Thursday, he reminded us why he’s still one of the most beloved figures in golf.
The shot came at the par-4 14th hole, known as Chinese Fir. It’s a 440-yard test of strategy and control. Younger players today are hitting mid or even low irons into that green on their second shot. But Freddie, now 65, showed that experience and touch still matter more than brute strength.
From my vantage point, I saw him hole out for eagle. It was one of those moments that gives you goosebumps, pure, classic Masters magic. There’s history on that hole. Phil Mickelson made eagle there years ago during one of his famous back-nine charges. But Thursday belonged to Freddie.
He finished the day with a one-under-par 71. Let that sink in. One under, at 65 years old, in one of the most demanding tournaments in the world. That’s what makes Augusta so special.
It’s the only major championship that returns to the same course year after year, and that continuity gives the veterans a chance to shine. For players like Fred Couples, Phil Mickelson, and Bernhard Langer, who is playing in his final Masters this year, it’s more than just nostalgia. It’s a legitimate opportunity to compete.
And if you understand the course the way these guys do, if you can still put it out there 250 or 260 off the tee, you can absolutely contend. The key is positioning. You cannot afford to miss in the wrong spots off the tee. Augusta demands precision. The green complexes are treacherous, and if you’re out of position, even a great short game might not save you. But these seasoned champions have the kind of knowledge that only time can give.
Justin Rose set the pace with a strong opening round, and players like Scottie Scheffler and Bryson DeChambeau are right there in the hunt. There are fireworks still to come, no doubt. But for me, the shot of the day came not from a rising star, but from a legend who knows these fairways better than most.
That’s the beauty of the Masters. It’s about more than just who hits the ball the farthest. It’s about who can think their way around this place, who can make the most of every opportunity, and who can rise to the moment, no matter their age.
Congratulations, Freddie. And thank you for reminding us what greatness really looks like.
Brendon is Class A PGA Professional and founded Little Linksters, LLC, and its nonprofit arm, the Little Linksters Association for Junior Golf Development. He won 25+ prestigious industry honors, including the 2017 PGA National Youth Player Development Award. He graduated from the PGA of America Management Program and has a handicap index of 7.8.
He has played golf for over 40 years and currently plays twice a month at the Eagle Dunes Golf Club near Sorrento, Florida. He loves Srixon clubs and plays a ZX5 driver with Z 585 irons. He's written over 60 articles on GolfSpan and specializes in sharing tips to improve your golf game. You can connect with Brendon at LinkedIn, X, IG, FB, his website, or BrendonElliott@pga.com.
