Rolex Testimonees anticipate the first major of the year.
OVERVIEW
Rolex has championed the journey to achievement in the world of golf since 1967, supporting the leading players, organizations and events at all levels of the game. Rolex has overseen remarkable performances at the Masters Tournament since 1999, and the Swiss watchmaker is now a Tournament Partner.
The 2026 edition of The Masters takes place from Thursday 9 to Sunday 12 April, marking the 90th anniversary of the prestigious event, played at the Augusta National Golf Club since 1934. Several Rolex Testimonees have claimed the iconic Green Jacket across the decades, including six-time champion Jack Nicklaus who became the oldest Masters winner in 1986. Tiger Woods, Adam Scott, Hideki Matsuyama, Scottie Scheffler and Jon Rahm have achieved Masters glory more recently, while Ludvig Åberg will be among the Rolex Testimonees and one of the sport’s rising stars striving for a maiden crown in 2026. As we celebrate the 90th anniversary of arguably the most high-profile golf tournament on earth, several Rolex Testimonees tell us why The Masters holds a unique place in their hearts.
LUDVIG ÅBERG
On what makes the Masters Tournament so special
“What I love about the game of golf is the history that comes with it and there is no place better for that than Augusta in the world. I always remember watching the first tee shots from Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player. It is important to remember the history, all those iconic shots on the golf course and what people before you have achieved. That is what makes Augusta special.”
On his strategy at Augusta National Golf Club
“Being good off the tee and being able to curve the ball both ways with some of these tree lines is really important, as you get lots of chances coming into the greens, which I feel is one of my strengths. The last couple of holes often bring some risk and reward where you can make a lot of birdies. I remember when Rolex Testimonee Tiger Woods won in 2019, he hit his shot on 16 pretty close to a couple of feet. I am a big Tiger fan so that was cool to see him complete that comeback.”
On his good form at the Masters
“Augusta National Golf Club is such a special place. I love it there. My caddy, Joe Skovran, has caddied in quite a few events there in the past so I’m lucky that I’ve never felt like a rookie because of all the knowledge he’s been able to share with me.”
HIDEKI MATSUYAMA
On becoming the first Asian-born player to win the Masters
“Growing up in the rural countryside, I always dreamed of winning the Masters Tournament but never imagined that kind of moment would ever come. I love playing at the Augusta National Golf Club, so it was an incredible feeling making the last putt on the 18th green. It was one of the biggest moments in my career. That victory keeps me motivated and determined to win another major championship in the future.”
On Rolex and the Masters Tournament
“It is such a pleasure and honour to feature alongside so many great Rolex Testimonees such as Tiger Woods, who have contributed to the legacy of the Masters Tournament. The long history between the Masters Tournament and Rolex is iconic, and one that golf fans around the world all admire and respect.”
JON RAHM
On what it means to be a Masters champion
“Playing at the Augusta National Golf Club is the most special feeling in golf. The Masters is the biggest tournament in the world and more than just winning the Green Jacket. Defining moments from every year are remembered throughout history and to be among a list of great Rolex champions such as Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and Scottie Scheffler is fantastic.”
SCOTTIE SCHEFFLER
On claiming the Green Jacket for the first time
“Putting on the Green Jacket is pretty special! The ceremony itself is beautiful. You are up on top of the hill, looking down over the golf course, the sun is setting, and it is the Masters. Everything is perfect. It was very emotional for me, and I was just really grateful. My whole family was there, my coach was there – basically everyone who had helped guide me along the way for years to get to that moment. As the previous winner [in 2021], Hideki Matsuyama was able to put the Green Jacket on me, which was fun as he is a fellow Rolex Testimonee. Being able to join the long list of Testimonees to have won the Masters, such as Tiger [Woods] and Jack [Nicklaus], and being able to go into the Champions Locker Room every year is a really cool experience.
