Gene Sarazen Double Eagle 1935

Lore & Background

This moment did more than just tie a tournament; it demonstrated that Augusta National could produce moments of transcendent beauty where skill and courage intersected. The 'Double Eagle' became the defining narrative of Sarazen's career, often overshadowing his other achievements, yet it remains the most celebrated single shot in the history of the Augusta National Invitation Tournament.

In Their Own Story

He swung with fluid power, the clubhead connecting perfectly. The ball lifted high, arcing over the rough and landing softly on the green. It rolled past the flagstick, slowing just enough to stay within a few feet. A collective gasp rippled through the gallery as Sarazen stared at the hole, knowing he had just pulled off an impossibility.

Reader's Guide

After a solid drive, his second shot left him short and well off the green, facing a difficult approach from over 200 yards. Instead of laying up, Sarazen chose the aggressive route, selecting his 3-wood to attempt an albatross—a rare double eagle on a par-4. The tension was palpable as he swung, aiming for a small target across the fairway. The shot landed perfectly on the green and rolled past the hole, stopping just inches away. This miraculous stroke tied him with Craig Wood and Bobby Jones, setting up a dramatic finish where Sarazen ultimately won by two strokes.

Did You Know?

• This was the first double eagle (albatross) ever recorded on the 15th hole at Augusta National in a major championship, though others have since achieved the feat (e.g., Jeff Maggert in 1994).
• Gene Sarazen was 38 years old when he hit this shot, proving that experience and power could still dominate the game.
• The shot tied Sarazen with Craig Wood, who was already in the clubhouse; Sarazen then won an 18-hole playoff the next day by five strokes.
• Bobby Jones, who co-founded Augusta National, was present as a spectator and reportedly called it 'the greatest shot I ever saw.'