2025 Masters: Meet the Amateurs Competing for Glory at Augusta National
The 2025 Masters Tournament at Augusta National promises to be one for the books, not only because of the green jacket up for grabs but also due to the Silver Cup and the chance to earn a coveted seat in Butler Cabin. The low amateur in the 89th edition of this prestigious event will be honored with these distinctions, and history shows that these accolades often signal the start of an illustrious career.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of Tiger Woods winning the Silver Cup at the 1995 Masters at just 19 years old. Woods made history as the only amateur to make the cut that year, and two years later, he would go on to claim his first of five green jackets. His success is not unique—several golfers have followed in his footsteps, turning their low amateur honors into professional triumphs. Notable examples include Sergio Garcia, who turned pro shortly after earning the Silver Cup in 1999, and Hideki Matsuyama, who won low amateur honors in 2011 before claiming the green jacket a decade later in 2021.
In addition to these legends, other golfers like Patrick Cantlay, Viktor Hovland, and Bryson DeChambeau have also earned recognition as low amateurs. Meanwhile, Matteo Manassero’s 2010 record as the youngest cut-maker at the Masters was later surpassed by Guan Tianlang, who made the weekend appearance at just 14 years old. Sam Bennett recently became the first amateur since 2005 to finish inside the top 20, while Neal Shipley stole the spotlight during the final round in 2025 alongside Tiger Woods.
As the 2025 Masters unfolds, let’s take a closer look at the five talented amateurs who will tee it up at Augusta National, hoping to add their names to the list of future golfing greats.
1. Jose Luis Ballester
How he qualified: 2024 U.S. Amateur champion
Amateur rank: No. 6
Top 10 finish odds: 35-1
At 21 years old, Ballester made history by becoming the first Spaniard to win the U.S. Amateur Championship, defeating Noah Kent in the final. He also became the fourth Arizona State player to win the title, joining the likes of Phil Mickelson (1990). Ballester will be looking to continue his strong showing at Augusta, representing both his country and university with pride.
2. Noah Kent
How he qualified: 2024 U.S. Amateur runner-up
Amateur rank: No. 156
Top 10 finish odds: 65-1
After transferring to the University of Florida from Iowa, Kent’s game has been on an upward trajectory. He showcased his talent by finishing inside the top 10 at the Patriot All-America Invitational and even made a PGA Tour appearance at the Houston Open, although he missed the cut. With a solid foundation, Kent will be eager to make a splash at Augusta.
3. Evan Beck
How he qualified: 2024 U.S. Mid-Amateur champion
Amateur rank: No. 18
Top 10 finish odds: 30-1
At 34 years old, Beck is no stranger to the mid-amateur scene. He earned his first USGA championship after a dominant victory at Kinloch Golf Club, avenging a previous loss in 2023. Beck’s years of experience and steady play make him a strong contender, and he will be looking to take full advantage of his Masters debut.
4. Justin Hastings
How he qualified: 2025 Latin American Amateur champion
Amateur rank: No. 24
Top 10 finish odds: 35-1
Hastings is riding a wave of momentum after an impressive win at the Latin American Amateur Championship. With a runner-up finish at the Southwestern Invitational and strong performances at the Mexico Open and Lamkin Invitational, the San Diego State standout is well-positioned to compete at Augusta. He also becomes the second player from the Cayman Islands to play in the Masters, following his U.S. Open debut.
5. Hiroshi Tai
How he qualified: NCAA Division I Individual National champion
Amateur rank: No. 47
Top 10 finish odds: 45-1
The Georgia Tech golfer claimed the NCAA individual title last spring, defeating a competitive field that included top names like Gordon Sargent and Ben James. Though his form has fluctuated since then, Tai has the potential to make a strong run for the Silver Cup in the smaller amateur field at this year’s Masters.
Looking Ahead: Who Will Claim the Silver Cup?
While the green jacket is the ultimate prize at the 2025 Masters, the low amateur distinction carries immense significance, often signaling the start of a future star’s professional career. These five golfers, each with their unique path to Augusta, are all aiming to leave their mark on this historic tournament. As the event unfolds, keep an eye on these amateurs—they may be the next big names in the world of golf.
