AUGUSTA, GEORGIA – APRIL 07: Course officials look over fallen trees on the 17th hole during the second round of the 2023 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 07, 2023 in Augusta, Georgia. (Photo by Ross Kinnaird/Getty Images)
A surreal scene has unfolded Friday afternoon at Augusta National Golf Club, as trees snapped and fell near the 17th hole during the second round of The 2023 Masters Tournament.
Masters officials confirmed there were no injuries and halted play for the day. The second round will resume at 8 a.m. on Saturday.
"Augusta National Golf Club can confirm that no injuries were reported from three trees that were blown over to the left of the No. 17 tee due to wind," the Masters said in its official update. "The safety and well-being of everyone attending the Masters Tournament will always be the top priority of the Club, which will continue to closely monitor weather today and through the tournament."
"The Second Round has been officially suspended for the rest of the day. Play will resume Saturday morning at 8:00 a.m. EDT. Ticket gates will open at 7:00 a.m. EDT as scheduled."
Play had been suspended earlier in the afternoon due to lightning in the early, but quickly resumed. But winds began to pick up not long after, and were swirling throughout the course.
Play was immediately suspended at 4:22 p.m.
"Due to inclement weather conditions, Augusta National Golf Club was forced to suspend play at 4:22 p.m. EDT and, subsequently, evacuated the grounds," Masters officials said.
Min Woo Lee was playing near that spot, and said there were no injuries, according to Brentley Romine, and ESPN's Scott Van Pelt.
Chainsaws could be heard on the live broadcast feed not long after. Play has been ended for the day.
