Pat McAfee revealed Wednesday that Augusta National has repeatedly rejected ESPN’s attempts to include him in Masters coverage.
The College GameDay host addressed the situation during his self-titled show. He’s been turned down for three straight years when requesting to cover the Par 3 Contest.
“We have attempted to be a part of the Wednesday coverage of the Masters at the Par 3 thing for three consecutive years now,” McAfee said. “They’ve told us to go to hell.”
McAfee praised Jason Kelce’s selection for this year’s coverage. The former Philadelphia Eagles center will participate in the Par 3 Contest broadcast.
“I think Jason Kelce, who’s a dog, who’s funny, who’s relatable, and is a good athlete, and he’s probably friends with a lot of these guys that are going to be golfing there,” McAfee said.
The ESPN personality acknowledged Augusta National’s selective approach to media coverage. He understands the tournament’s desire to maintain its traditions.
“So I think you should be happy about that, that they do try to preserve it as a whole,” McAfee explained. “They have a certain thing that they are looking for.”
Jason Kelce is headed to Augusta National for The Masters Par 3 Contest..
We think he will be an added bonus to the coverage#PMSLive pic.twitter.com/bMgYwCdFC9
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) April 1, 2026
McAfee addressed critics who view the Masters as golf’s last sacred event. He wanted them to know Augusta National has been consistent in rejecting his involvement.
“To the people that are upset, saying that the Masters are the only thing you got left, know that they’ve turned us down very loudly numerous times,” he said.
The former Indianapolis Colts punter has become one of ESPN’s most prominent personalities. He hosts College GameDay during football season and maintains his daily show year-round.
April remains busy for McAfee despite the Masters rejection. The NFL Draft takes place later this month, providing another major sports event for his coverage.
Whether Augusta National will reconsider McAfee’s involvement in future years remains unclear.
