Michael McDermott once again lived out a golfer’s dream, becoming the center of attention at Augusta National — not as a competitor, but as a non-competing marker.
For the second time in three years, McDermott was selected to play alongside a solo competitor during the third round of the Masters. When an odd number of players make the cut, Augusta National provides a marker — typically a skilled club member — to accompany the lone player. This year, that role went to McDermott, who was paired with Tim Kim on Saturday.
McDermott, a member at Augusta National and CEO of a financial firm in Pennsylvania, followed a unique set of rules. While he played all 18 holes, his score wasn’t official, and his name didn’t appear on the caddie’s uniform like the tournament players. He also wasn’t available for media interviews after the round.
But that didn’t stop fans from buzzing on social media about his round. Many were envious, joking that they wanted to switch places with him, see his performance livestreamed, or even bet on his score.
McDermott isn’t just a casual golfer. He’s won 10 major titles under the Golf Association of Philadelphia and captured its amateur championship in 2008, 2013, and 2016. Known for his long drives — regularly over 300 yards — McDermott impressed Kim with both his game and demeanor.
“He played great actually,” Kim said after the round. “Hits it really far. His irons — sometimes he even used a longer club than I did. Total baller.”
Kim said he was surprised but pleased to find out he’d have company on the course. Normally, pros playing alone speed through their rounds, but Kim said this experience was far more enjoyable.
“We had a great time,” Kim said. “When I got to the first tee, I was shocked by how many people were there. It felt like a Sunday final group — I was way more nervous today than I was in my earlier rounds.”
As they walked down the first fairway, applause rang out from the crowd. “I’m sure they were clapping for Michael, not me,” Kim joked.
They treated the round like a casual match — if McDermott had the better hole, he teed off first on the next. At times, he’d even pick up his ball after Kim holed out to keep the pace of play smooth.
“He’s a seriously good player,” Kim said. “It helped keep the rhythm going. Playing alone can make it hard to build momentum, so having someone to walk and chat with made a big difference.”
