The Masters and the Spanish Golf Legacy at Augusta

Few tournaments in the world of golf evoke as much emotion and tradition as The Masters at Augusta National Golf Club. This tournament holds a special place in the Spanish golf legacy because of its prestige and the champions who’ve walked its fairways and donned the iconic Green Jacket.

It all began with Seve Ballesteros, who, in 1980, became the first European ever to win The Masters. Just 23 years old, Seve stunned the American crowd with his bold shot-making and unmatched charisma. He’d go on to win again in 1983, forever linking his name with Augusta’s legacy. His victory opened the gates for a new era of European contenders and a golden chapter for the Spanish golf legacy.

José María Olazábal followed in Seve’s footsteps, winning not once but twice, in 1994 and 1999. Quiet and precise, Olazábal was a master of Augusta’s undulating greens. His 1999 comeback win after a career-threatening injury remains one of the most emotional stories in Masters history. Many recall the embrace between him and his caddie at the 18th—pure magic.

The Unstoppable Spanish Golf Legacy

Then came Sergio García, whose dramatic playoff win in 2017 brought tears to the eyes of golf fans worldwide. After 73 attempts at majors without a win, Sergio broke through at Augusta on what would’ve been Seve’s 60th birthday. The tribute was unspoken but profound. That year, the Green Jacket was more than a trophy; it symbolised perseverance and destiny.

Jon Rahm‘s 2023 win was dominant (the last by a Spaniard) and remains a firm favourite this year. García will join him, still hungry and always dangerous at Augusta, Olazábal, playing both as past champions, and Jose Luis Ballester, who won the last U.S. Amateur.

Augusta is always full of surprises, and Spaniards again take centre stage. The Spanish golf legacy Seve started more than four decades ago is alive and well, and this week, all eyes will be on the azaleas—and García, Olazábal, Rahm and Ballester chasing history.

Photo: Live About.

Martim Pinto Johansen Shines at GreatGolf Junior Open

Portugal’s rising golf star, Martim Pinto Johansen, has started 2024 in style! The 14-year-old national champion claimed victory at the first-ever GreatGolf Junior Open by Fundação Luís Figo, held at Millennium Golf Course in Vilamoura. His excellent performance earned him the title and an exclusive invitation to compete at the Orlando International Amateur Junior in the United States.

With a two-round total of 138 strokes (-6), Martim was the only player to finish under par, showcasing his dominance with rounds of 71 and 67. Playing on his home turf as a Clube de Golfe de Vilamoura member, he secured the win by an impressive 13-stroke margin over Rodrigo Marques Santos.

This isn’t Martim’s first taste of international success. In 2023, he won the Amundi Evian Juniors Cup in France and finished runner-up at the Amendoeira World Kids Golf. Now, he’s heading to the United States for the first time—a dream come true. “I’ve always wanted to go to the US, but not just to visit—I wanted to play there and enjoy the experience,” said an excited Martim.

The tournament featured 41 young talents from 14 different national backgrounds, with exciting performances across multiple categories. Ethan Prybys Orton (Vila Sol) took the U-14 title, shooting +11 over two rounds. At the same time, Ricardo Castro Ferreira (Clube de Golf do Estoril) dominated the U-12 division, proving once again why he’s considered nearly unbeatable in Portugal.

Among the girls, Amélia Gabin was the standout player, finishing an impressive 5th overall and outperforming some of the top-ranked juniors in Portugal.

Beyond the competition, the tournament had a charitable impact, donating a percentage of sponsorship and entry fees to the Fundação Luís Figo, supporting young athletes from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Tee Times Golf Agency was proud to be a tournament partner with the Federacao Portuguesa de Golf, Vilamoura Golf, Millenium Vilamoura, Titleist, Cosmos Sports Travel, Orlando Juniors, Norgolf, and Weasy. Other major players supporting the event as sponsors include Almas, Caetano Baviera, Cigala, PG Hotels & Resorts, RentAcceso, and Wyndham Residences Alvor Beach.

With an unforgettable start to the year, Martim and the other junior stars have set the tone for an exciting season ahead. Congratulations to all the GreatGolf Junior Open players!

More information: https://greatgolf.weasy.io/

Photos by: Daryl Gabin.

The GreatGolf 2025 Junior Open: Where the Future of Golf Begins

Golf’s rising stars are heading to Vilamoura for the GreatGolf 2025 Junior Open, set to take place on March 2nd & 3rd at the stunning Millennium Golf CourseGolf’s rising stars are heading to Vilamoura for the GreatGolf 2025 Junior Open, set to take place on March 2nd and 3rd at the stunning Millennium Golf Course. This tournament, organised by the Luís Figo Foundation, brings together talented young golfers in the Under 12, Under 14, Under 16, and Under 18 categories, giving them a chance to showcase their skills in a competitive but supportive environment.

For years, Vilamoura Golf has played a key role in shaping the next generation of golfers, providing top-class facilities and supporting Clube de Golfe de Vilamoura, a club known for producing some of Portugal’s brightest talents. The Millennium Golf Course, with its mix of open fairways and tricky tree-lined holes, will put young players to the test while offering an unforgettable experience on one of Vilamoura’s most popular courses.

The GreatGolf 2025 Junior Open: Key Supporters

This event wouldn’t be possible without the backing of some of golf’s biggest supporters. Tee Times Golf Agency is proud to be one of the tournament sponsors. Founded by Carlos Ferreira, Tee Times has been helping golfers book top courses in Portugal and Spain for over 30 years, and their commitment to the sport extends beyond tourism—they actively support the growth of junior golf.

The tournament partners are the Federacao Portuguesa de Golf, Vilamoura Golf, Millenium Vilamoura, Titleist, Cosmos Sports Travel, Orlando Juniors, Norgolf and Weasy. Other major players supporting the event as sponsors include Almas, Caetano Baviera, Cigala, PG Hotels & Resorts, RentAcceso and Wyndham Residences Alvor Beach, and the Luís Figo Foundation, which has been working for years to create opportunities for young athletes through sports and education initiatives.

With a world-class venue, an exciting group of young golfers, and the support of leading golf organisations, the GreatGolf 2025 Junior Open is set to be an unforgettable tournament. Whether you’re a player, a fan, or love seeing the future of golf in action, this is one event you won’t want to miss!

More information: https://greatgolf.weasy.io/