ChronoFive
Play today’s puzzle
Setting the scene
Tiger Woods had turned professional in 1996 amid enormous hype, but Augusta National's narrow fairways and lightning-fast greens had long favored experienced veterans over young power hitters.
What happened
Tiger Woods won his first Masters on April 13, 1997, finishing at 18-under 270—a tournament record—and winning by twelve strokes while becoming the first Black golfer to win a major in the modern era.
Why it still matters
His victory reshaped golf's audience, sponsorship, and participation among young athletes who had rarely seen themselves reflected at the top of the sport. Memorable detail: Woods opened with 40 on the front nine Thursday, then stormed back with a course-record 30 on the back.
Background
His victory reshaped golf demographics and TV ratings.