Michael McDermott has once again captured the attention of the golfing community.
For the second time in three years, McDermott was selected as a non-competing marker for The Masters, this time accompanying Tom Kim for a round in the third segment at Augusta National.
When there’s an uneven number of players who progress after the cut at The Masters, the solitary player is paired with a designated partner—chosen by the club—to keep track of their score.
McDermott, who acts as the chief executive of a financial services business in Pennsylvania and is a member at Augusta National, received this honour.
His experience differed slightly from that of a standard competitor at The Masters.
Michael McDermott, a member of Augusta National, was selected to serve as the marker in the third round. Getty
Unlike the official competitors, he didn’t record a score, and his name wasn’t allowed on the back of his caddie’s coveralls.
Additionally, he wasn’t permitted to speak with the media post-round.
Nevertheless, he had the opportunity to play 18 holes at The Masters, sparking a flurry of discussion on social media as many wished they could swap places with him for the day.
There were calls for live streaming of his shots and cheeky bets placed on his round at various sportsbooks.
McDermott is far from an ordinary amateur golfer.
With 10 major victories in the Golf Association of Philadelphia, he secured the association’s amateur title in 2008, 2013, and 2016. He consistently drives the ball around 300m, and Kim noted that McDermott didn’t slow him down at all.
“He actually played exceptionally well,” Kim reflected, estimating that McDermott would have shot in the 70s had he kept score.
“He hits the ball a fair distance. Sometimes he even grabbed a club longer than me. He was quite the player.”
Kim, whose vibrant personality shines through on the course, was pleasantly surprised upon discovering he would be partnered with McDermott as they approached the first tee.
While most golfers on professional tours typically play alone and race through the course, Kim expressed that playing alongside McDermott was “far more enjoyable” than going solo.
“We had a fantastic time,” Kim shared.
“I was taken aback when I reached the first tee. The crowd was so large it felt like I was in the final group on Sunday. So many spectators were present.”
“I felt more anxious today than I did yesterday (in the second round), even on Thursday.”
Masters marker Michael McDermott and Tom Kim during the third round. Getty
Kim observed that the applause as they made their way down the first fairway was predominantly for McDermott. “I’m sure they were applauding for Michael, not for me,” he quipped.
Throughout the round, Kim played as if McDermott was another professional, taking turns teeing off based on who won each hole. At times, Kim would sink a putt while McDermott picked up his ball to maintain the group’s pace.
“He’s an incredibly skilled player,” Kim said.
“It definitely enhanced the flow of the game—it was refreshing to play alongside someone and maintain some momentum.
“It was nice to have someone to chat with while walking the fairway.”
McDermott is set to feature again in the final round, partnering with Brian Campbell.
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