Masters chairman offers no answer on future of sought-after gnome

A patron walks with a gnome near the sixth hole during a practice round at of the Masters golf tournament at the Augusta National Golf Club, Monday, April 6, 2026, in Augusta, Ga. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)

Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley says he is in the dark over the future of the Masters gnome.

The $50 (€43) novelty product has become one of the most sought-after items since its introduction to the merchandise stable 10 years ago, often going for 10 times its value on resale sites, and is limited to one purchase per patron.

However, rumours spread during the week that the 13.5-inch bearded figure, dressed in Masters attire and this year carrying an operational umbrella, was in danger of being withdrawn for future events.

The significance of the matter meant it was brought up at Ridley’s annual press conference on the eve of the tournament in the quest for answers.

“Number one, the question is not trivial,” Ridley said.

“Number two: I’ve been asking that question for several years and they won’t tell me the answer. So I can’t help you.”