One of the most exclusive rooms in sports isn't for champions, it's for amateurs. At the top of Augusta National's clubhouse, the Crow's Nest has hosted legends like Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus long before they ever won a green jacket.

The Crow’s Nest is a small living space reached by a narrow staircase. The layout includes a shared sitting area, a television, and partitions that create separate sleeping sections. In total, it can accommodate a handful of players at a time.

Unlike other rooms in the clubhouse, this space is not meant for champions or guests. It is reserved for amateurs. That decision reflects a long-standing focus on amateur golf within the tournament.

That connection goes back to Bobby Jones, who co-founded the club and remained closely tied to amateur competition. His influence shaped how the tournament treats amateur players even today.

The clubhouse dates back to 1854, when it was built by Dennis Redmond. While parts of the building have changed over time, the Crow’s Nest has remained largely the same. Its position at the top of the building also explains its name.

The term “Crow’s Nest” comes from ships, where it refers to the highest lookout point, and that idea carries over here.

From this space, amateur players stay inside the clubhouse during the tournament. They are also close to areas like the Champions Locker Room, located below, which places them near the daily routine of experienced players.

The Crow’s Nest Has Hosted Amateurs Who Later Won the Masters

Several players who stayed in the Crow’s Nest as amateurs later won the Masters Tournament as professionals.

The list includes Jack Nicklaus, Tommy Aaron, Tom Watson, Ben Crenshaw, Craig Stadler, Mark O'Meara, Phil Mickelson, and Tiger Woods.

Their results at the tournament varied. Nicklaus recorded six wins. Woods won five times. Mickelson secured three titles. Watson and Crenshaw each won twice. Aaron, Stadler, and O’Meara won once.

At the same time, one point remains unchanged. No amateur has won the Masters. That is why the space continues to be linked with players who went on to win the tournament.

For the 2026 edition of The Masters Tournament, six players are eligible to stay in the Crow’s Nest. The list includes Mason Howell, Jackson Herrington, Ethan Fang, Fifa Laopakdee, Mateo Pulcini, and Brandon Holtz.

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Written by

Aditi Singh