The Masters is one of the most prestigious golf tournaments in the world. Each year, the tournament brings together the best golfers from around the globe to compete for the coveted green jacket and a share of the prize money.
So just how much money does the winner of the Masters get? In 2021, the total prize money for the tournament was $11.5 million. The winner received $2.07 million, which is a significant increase from the $1.98 million that was awarded to the winner in 2019.
In addition to the prize money, the winner of the Masters also receives a lifetime exemption to play in the tournament, ensuring a spot in the field for years to come.
While the winner of the Masters takes home a substantial amount of money, it is important to note that the money is distributed among the top finishers. The runner-up in the 2021 tournament received $1.24 million, while the third-place finisher took home $861,457.
Overall, the Masters offers a significant payday for those who perform well in the tournament. While it may not be the only reason why golfers compete in the event, the prize money certainly adds to the excitement and prestige of the tournament.
The Prestige of Winning The Masters

Winning The Masters is undoubtedly one of the greatest achievements in professional golf. This major championship is steeped in history and tradition, which makes it one of the most prestigious and sought-after titles in the sport. The Masters, held every April at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia, is often referred to as the “Super Bowl of Golf.”
The Masters is unique not only because of its exclusivity but also because of its allure. Every professional golfer dreams of winning the green jacket, and those who do earn the right to be called a true champion. It’s not just about the prize money; it’s about the prestige and respect that come with winning one of the most coveted titles in professional golf.
The green jacket is the most iconic symbol of the Masters, and every year, the winner dons the jacket in a traditional ceremony in the Butler Cabin. The jacket is more than just a piece of clothing; it represents prestige, tradition, and excellence.
Winning The Masters means more than just a hefty payout; it means joining an exclusive club of champions. Every player who has won The Masters, from the first champion Horton Smith in 1934 to the most recent winner Dustin Johnson in 2020, has become a part of history and has cemented their legacy in the sport of golf.
Moreover, the Masters champions get to return to Augusta National every April as an honorary member of the club and get to participate in the tournament for the rest of their lives. This means that the Masters champions not only get to relive their victory every year but also have the opportunity to play on one of the most beautiful and exclusive golf courses in the world.
So, while the prize money is undoubtedly a welcome bonus, it is the prestige and honor that comes with winning The Masters that makes it a lifelong dream for every professional golfer. It’s a title that remains unmatched in the world of golf, and winning it is truly a once-in-a-lifetime achievement.
A Look into The History of The Masters Winnings
The Masters is considered as one of the most prestigious golf tournaments around the world and attracts golfers from every corner of the globe. Since the tournament’s inception in 1934, The Masters has solidified its place in the history books and is now synonymous with the most exceptional golfing moments and long-standing traditions. Winning an event of this magnitude is not only prestigious, but it also has high pecuniary value. The financial reward that comes with winning The Masters is the ultimate icing on the cake. What began as a small, private gathering has now evolved into one of the most lucrative sporting events globally, with the prizemoney increasing almost every year.
The Evolution of The Masters Winnings
The Masters is the most lucrative major golf tournament worldwide, with prizemoney that is second only to the Players Championship. However, things were not always this way. During the 1930s, when The Masters began, the total prizemoney for the event was a mere $5,000. The winner of the tournament took home a check of $1,500, which was quite substantial at that point in time. Gradually, the prizemoney increased, with the champion winning a little over $2,000 during the 1940s.
It wasn’t until the 1980s and 1990s that the Masters’ prizemoney significantly increased. In 1983, the total prizemoney for the tournament was $500,000, with the winner receiving a check for $108,000. By 1991, the prizemoney for the Masters had surpassed the $1 million mark. Currently, the final prizemoney for the Masters tournament has reached an all-time high of $11.5 million, with the winner’s share being $2.07 million.
The significant surge in prizemoney during the last few decades could be attributed to the massive growth in golf’s popularity over the years. The increasing number of sponsors and television broadcasts have also led to the increase in prizemoney for the players who have won The Masters. The tournament’s appeal has played a critical role in attracting more fans and viewers, leading to more significant advertising revenue and higher prizemoney.
In conclusion, The Masters’ prizemoney has experienced substantial growth over the years, making it one of the most lucrative golf tournaments globally. The rising revenue and the tournament’s significant increase in popularity over the years are likely to lead to a further boost in the prizemoney and the prestige of the tournament.
The 2021 Winners’ Prize Check at The Masters
The Masters, one of the four major championships in professional men’s golf, has been held annually at Augusta National Golf Club since 1934. The winner of the tournament not only secures a coveted green jacket but also receives a substantial prize for their success. In 2021, the total prize pool amounted to $11.5 million, with the winner’s share being the biggest chunk of that amount. In this article, we will dive deeper into the details of how much money the 2021 Masters winner received.
How Much Money Did Hideki Matsuyama Win?
The 2021 Masters Tournament took place from April 8-11, and Hideki Matsuyama was the winner with a final score of -10, making him the first Japanese golfer to win a major championship. Matsuyama received a cash prize of $2.07 million, which is a significant amount in golf. However, it is important to note that this amount is subject to taxes and agent commissions. The winner also receives a lifetime exemption to play in the Masters and several other tournaments.
Comparison to Previous Years
The prize money for the Masters has increased over the years, reflecting the growth in popularity and profitability of the tournament. In 2010, the total prize money was $7.5 million, with the winner’s share being $1.35 million. Compared to the 2021 tournament, that is an increase of $720,000 for the winner. In 1990, the total prize pool was only $1.8 million, with the winner’s share being $288,000. This shows how much the Masters has grown in value over the years.
Other Paying Positions
While winning the Masters is a tremendous accomplishment, there are other monetary benefits for finishing in the top positions. The runner-up receives $1.24 million, while third place takes home $804,000. The payouts continue for the top 50 players, with the 50th finisher receiving $28,980, which is still a substantial amount. It’s also essential to note that non-competing caddies receive about 10% of their player’s prize money, which means Matsuyama’s caddy could have received over $200,000 for his excellent work.
Conclusion
The prestige, honor, and benefits of winning the Masters are tremendous, and the amount of money that comes with it is also impressive. Besides the players and their caddies, charities also benefit from the tournament’s proceeds. Overall, the 2021 Masters winner, Hideki Matsuyama, received a prize of $2.07 million, which was the biggest chunk of the $11.5 million total prize pool. As the Masters’ success continues, the prize fund is likely to keep increasing in the coming years, making it an even more lucrative championship for golfers.
How The Masters Winnings Compare to Other Golf Tournaments
The Masters Tournament is one of the most prestigious golf events in the world, held annually at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia. It features the best golfers from around the globe competing for the coveted green jacket and a hefty prize money. The winner of the Masters receives a substantial cash prize, but how does it compare to other golf tournaments?
Firstly, it’s important to note that the prize money for the Masters has significantly increased over time. The first Masters in 1934 had a total purse of $5,000, with Horton Smith receiving $1,500 for winning. In 2021, the total purse was $11.5 million, with the winner, Hideki Matsuyama, taking home $2.07 million. This shows the growth and importance of the tournament over the years.
When compared to the other three major golf championships – the US Open, The Open Championship, and the PGA Championship – the Masters still holds its own in terms of prize money. The US Open in 2020 had a total purse of $12.5 million, with the winner, Bryson DeChambeau, taking home $2.25 million. The Open Championship in 2019 had a total purse of $10.75 million, with the winner, Shane Lowry, receiving $1.935 million. The PGA Championship in 2021 had a total purse of $11 million, with the winner, Phil Mickelson, taking home $2.16 million.
As shown in the chart above, the prize money for all four major golf championships is very similar, with only a few hundred thousand dollars separating the total purse and the winner’s share. However, it’s important to note that these are just the four major championships and not indicative of all the golf tournaments around the world.
There are also several other high-profile golf tournaments that offer prize money on par with the Masters and other major championships. For example, the Players Championship is often referred to as the unofficial “fifth major” and offers a total purse of $15 million, with the winner receiving $2.7 million. Other prestigious tournaments, such as the FedEx Cup, the WGC events, and the BMW PGA Championship, also offer substantial prize money to the winners.
Overall, while the Masters may not offer the biggest prize money among all golf tournaments, it’s still one of the most esteemed events in the sport. The prestigious Augusta National Golf Club, the iconic green jacket, and the history and traditions of the tournament all contribute to its allure and importance in the golf world.
The Future of The Masters Winnings
The Masters is one of the most prestigious golf events in the world. Every year, thousands of golfers from around the globe vie for the chance to compete in this tournament. Winning the green jacket is a huge honor, and along with it comes a substantial financial reward. But what does the future hold for the Masters winnings? Here are some possible scenarios:
1. Higher Total Purse
The Masters has a total purse of $11.5 million, with the winner taking home a cool $2.07 million. While this is already a considerable amount, it’s possible that the total purse could increase in the future. With more and more sponsors investing in golf, there may come a time when the Masters offers a record-breaking purse that makes even the biggest winners of the past look like paupers.
2. A Lower Winner’s Share
Alternatively, the share of the purse that goes to the winner could decrease if the Masters decides to redistribute the winnings to other players. This would be a controversial move, but it’s not out of the question. The Masters’ organizers may decide that the current payout structure is too top-heavy and that it would be fairer to give more players a share of the pie.
3. A Shift Towards International Players
The Masters has traditionally been dominated by American players, but in recent years there has been a notable increase in international winners. The future may see even more international players take home the green jacket, which could have an impact on how the winnings are distributed. With more players from different countries winning, there may be increased pressure to ensure that the payouts are equitable for all.
4. A Move Towards Equal Pay
The issue of pay equity has been a hot topic in many sports in recent years, and golf is no exception. While the Masters has always paid men more than women, this may change in the future. There may be calls for equal pay for all players or for a more equitable distribution of winnings across genders. This is a conversation that will likely continue in the years to come.
5. Increased Sponsorship Deals
The Masters already has many high-profile sponsors, but this could increase even more in the future. As golf continues to grow in popularity around the world, there may be even more companies vying for a piece of the Masters pie. This could result in increased prize money for the winners of the tournament.
Overall, the future of the Masters winnings is uncertain, but one thing is for sure: winning the green jacket will always be a highly coveted achievement. Whether the payouts increase, decrease, or remain the same, the competition will be as fierce as ever. Only time will tell what changes will come to this storied golf tournament.