Inside Augusta National Golf Club: Secrets, Members, and the Mystique

Augusta National Golf Club, one of the most iconic and exclusive institutions in the world, has added some big names to its membership roster. Former New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, CBS Sports Chairman Sean McManus, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy, and Delta Airlines CEO Ed Bastian are the latest to don the club's famed green jackets. For Eli Manning, this marks a family affair as he joins his brother, Peyton, among the privileged ranks.

But how does one gain entry into this elite circle? The answer lies in Augusta’s unmatched secrecy, storied history, and unique culture.

The Mystique of Augusta National

Founded in 1932, Augusta National was long shrouded in exclusivity—initially as a men-only club and later as a bastion of strict membership protocols. Milestones such as the admittance of African American members in 1990 and female members in 2012 (including Condoleeza Rice and Darla Moore) highlight its slow evolution toward inclusivity.

Augusta National isn’t just a golf club—it’s a for-profit entity. This status affords it a level of privacy unmatched by traditional nonprofit golf clubs. From refusing to disclose its membership list to deploying RFID tracking badges during the Masters, Augusta’s dedication to discretion is legendary. Even the process for becoming a member is veiled in mystery.

The Path to Membership

There’s no application form, website portal, or flashy pitch process. Membership at Augusta National hinges on connections and reputation. The club has roughly 300 members at any time, and new spots open only when a current member leaves or passes away. Prospective members must be nominated by an existing member, followed by a rigorous review that considers their character and contributions to the world more than their handicap or wealth.

Speaking publicly about aspirations to join? A major faux pas. Just ask Bill Gates. Despite his fortune and influence, Gates’ candid remarks about wanting membership delayed his acceptance until 2002.

What Does Membership Cost?

Surprisingly, Augusta National’s initiation fee is modest compared to other top-tier clubs, at around $40,000. Annual dues are rumored to be just a few thousand dollars—a pittance for members accustomed to multi-million-dollar boardroom decisions. Once inside, members enjoy perks like $100-per-night stays in one of the club’s luxurious cabins and access to world-class amenities, including an underground wine cellar stocked with rare vintages.

Life as a Member

While membership is a dream, Augusta National doesn’t allow free reign. The club’s rules are famously strict: no shorts, no backwards hats, no tipping (outside of caddies), and no fishing in the club’s picturesque waters. Even Masters champions like Tiger Woods must adhere to protocol, picking up guests at the gate and ensuring a member joins their foursome. The club also frowns upon high-stakes gambling and lights left on past midnight—New Year’s Eve countdowns occur at 10:30 p.m. sharp.

Yet these quirks pale in comparison to the benefits. The pristine course, closed during summer to maintain its immaculate condition, sees just 20 to 30 members on a typical weekend. SubAir systems beneath the greens and walkways ensure flawless conditions, regardless of weather.

A Legacy of Legends

Augusta National’s membership list reads like a who’s who of power and prestige, from Warren Buffett and Bill Gates to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred. Former U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower played over 200 rounds there during his presidency, even inspiring the construction of a dedicated cabin on the property.

Every member is awarded a green jacket, symbolizing their place in the club’s storied history. And while Augusta’s exclusivity is often criticized, it’s this very mystique that fuels its allure. For the fortunate few who pass through its gates, membership isn’t just about golf—it’s about belonging to a living legend.