In a typical year, anticipation is the overwhelming emotion one feels leading into the Masters, whether you’re a player, a tournament official, a volunteer or just a golf fan. You know in your mind’s eye what to expect when you come to Augusta National, and yet you can’t wait to see it, experience it, marinate in it once more. But this, of course, isn’t a typical year. And so while COVID-19 delayed that anticipation of the Masters from April to November, it also brought with it a different emotion that prevails this unusual week: curiosity. No matter if you’re a player, a tournament official, a volunteer or just a golf fan, you haven’t necessarily seen a Masters like this. Which is why our photographers, JD Cuban and Ben Walton, will be hard at work the next few days chronicling all that’s going on at Augusta National, covering the tournament you’ve come to love while proving glimpses of sights never seen. We’ll update this photo essay throughout the week with the hope is that it satisfies your curiosity as the your anticipation for the Masters returns. —Ryan Herrington
Dawn on Monday morning as Masters week 2020 begins.
Empty tables outside Augusta National’s clubhouse.
A view of the 12th green through the trees.
Looking at the 13th green through the trees, Augusta’s fall foliage doesn’t disappoint.
Players approach the 10th green during their Monday practice round.
Players practiced on Monday, trying to get an idea of how the course might play differently compared to in the spring.
Gary Woodland walks along the Sarazen Bridge as he approached the 15th green.
Amid the practice rounds, course maintenance staff work on continuing to get Augusta National into game shape.
An empty concession stands hints at what we’re missing this week without patrons in attendance.
The emptiness all around Augusta National will take some getting used to.
Tiger Woods’ caddie, Joe LaCava, gets an early look at the 13th green on Monday.
With no grandstand beside the 11th green and 12th tee, the area’s openness is striking.
An official waits patiently for players to come through on the 12th tee.