The 1992 Masters champion, Fred Couples, made his 41st start at Augusta National this week. Playing on the basis of a lifetime exemption, Couples declared his love for Augusta National in an interview, and fans loved his candid response.

Couples, aged 66, missed the cut at Augusta this time. He continues to try for the Green Jacket at this age. Before heading out of Augusta National this week, he made sure to express his feelings about the course.

“Well, first of all, you'd have to be an idiot not to love Augusta National. I don't know if you can use those words, but they might like that, hearing that,” he said.

Couples mentions greats like Hubert Green, Jack Nicklaus, and Tom Weiskopf. Although Weiskopf and Green never won the Masters, Couples believed that they were deserving of one.

“I mean, the only other guy I've really heard use the same words is Phil. You know, it's like paradise. People love it, but I consider it to be just the greatest walk you could ever have,” Couples added.

“There are great courses all over the world, but there are none of them like this,” he concluded.

What Makes Augusta National So Special for the Players?

Augusta National's status is built on a unique mix of history, tradition, and exclusivity.

The impeccable standards maintained by Augusta National for its course are what set it apart. Millions are spent every year to maintain the integrity of the course. The greens, bunkers, and even the concessions are meticulously looked after by the management.

The Amen Corner, thanks to Rae’s Creek, has produced some of the most iconic moments in the sport. The back nine always creates headlines that grab the attention of every golf fan. On top of that, its exclusivity adds to its value.

At 66, Fred Couples still has his lifetime exemption at Augusta National, but his future starts will likely depend on competitiveness.

With seven missed cuts in his last eight Masters appearances, his role is shifting away from contention, though his connection to the Masters could keep him returning as long as he feels capable.

Read more at Daily Club Golf!

Written by

Avishek Sarkar

Edited by

Pulkit Prabhav