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http://www.augusta.com/masters/story/news/masters-traditions-green-jacketsThe green jacket is reserved for Augusta National members and golfers who win the Masters. Jackets are kept on club grounds, and taking them off the premises is forbidden.
The exception is for the winner, who can take it home and return it to the club the following year.
Gary Player, who became the tournament’s first international winner in 1961, said he didn’t know that.
After losing a playoff in 1962 to Arnold Palmer, he packed the jacket and took it to his home in South Africa.
That led to a call from club Chairman Clifford Roberts, who was a stickler for rules.
“I didn’t know you were supposed to leave it there,” Player said. “Next thing you know, there was a call from Mr. Roberts.”
According to Player, here’s how the exchange went:
“‘Gary, have you got the jacket?’
“I said, ‘Yes, I do.’
“He said, ‘Well, no one ever takes the jacket away from here.’
“And I said, ‘Well, Mr. Roberts, if you want it, why don’t you come and fetch it?’”
Roberts, who didn’t lose many arguments, agreed to a compromise.
“He kind of chuckled and said don’t wear it in public,” Player said.