Augusta National Golf Club stands as one of the most esteemed and globally recognised golf destinations. SportsLens delves into the expense of securing a membership at Augusta National and its position among other high-priced memberships.
Situated in Augusta, Georgia, this exclusive club hosts the prestigious Masters Tournament, one of golf‘s most esteemed major championships. Established in 1932 by Bobby Jones and Clifford Roberts, Augusta National Golf Club is renowned worldwide.
There isn’t a formal application process for membership. Instead, current members have the privilege to recommend individuals to fill one of the 300 membership positions as they open up. However, the final decision on membership invitations rests with the club itself.
The club’s season spans from October to May, with a notable pause during the Masters tournament. Members are permitted to bring multiple guests, but guests must wait until their host member arrives before accessing the property.
Additional benefits for members include the option to stay in on-site “cabins” for around £79 per night. Membership offers advantages like exclusivity and reasonable prices.
How Much Does An Augusta Membership Cost?
Augusta National’s membership fees, given its esteemed status, are relatively low and are ranked joint third among the most expensive initiation fees for golf clubs.
The initiation fee is speculated to be approximately £240,000, though the official figure remains undisclosed. The yearly dues are usually in the range of a few thousand dollars annually, approximately between £5,500 and £8,000.
As a member, you would enjoy access to the club’s prestigious 18-hole golf course, which has been the venue for the Masters Tournament annually since 1934. Additionally, members can take advantage of the club’s various facilities, including a clubhouse, tennis courts, and a swimming pool.
Who Are The Most Famous Augusta National Members?
Membership at the club encompasses a diverse array of notable individuals, including Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, and billionaire Warren Buffett.
The club also boasts a plethora of CEOs from renowned companies such as IBM, Bank of America, MillerCoors, American Express, General Electric, and numerous others.
Moreover, there’s a significant presence from the sports world, with notable members including NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, Hall of Famer Lynn Swann, former college football coach Lou Holtz, and former USC athletic director Pat Haden.
Augusta National made history in 2012 by announcing its decision to include women in its membership. Among the first female members were Condoleezza Rice and Darla Moore. Currently, reports suggest that there are four women who are members of the club.
Following suit in 2014, IBM CEO Ginni Rometty became the third female member to join Augusta National. Additionally, in 2018, former USGA president Diana Murphy was seen wearing a green jacket on the premises, suggesting her membership in the club.
Now that we’ve explored Augusta National Golf Club, which other golf clubs have higher membership fees?
Most Expensive Golf Club Memberships
3. The Vintage Club, California
Located in Indian Wells, California, The Vintage Club is an exclusive establishment founded in 1986. With two championship golf courses and a host of amenities, it epitomises luxury and exclusivity.
The Vintage Club ranks third on our global list of the most expensive golf club memberships, with an initiation cost of approximately £240,000, on par with Augusta.
Tom Fazio designed 2 18 holes courses at The Vintage Club in Indian Wells, California, called Mountain and Desert. Plenty of spectacular mountain views. I understand Bill Gates is a member here. pic.twitter.com/V2uSNEl3bN
— Belgian Golfer (@BelgianGolfer) May 18, 2021
2. Liberty National, New Jersey
Ranked second on our list of the most expensive golf club memberships is Liberty National New Jersey, boasting a membership initiation fee of £357,000. This private club, nestled in Jersey City, operates on an invite-only basis.
With an estimated construction cost of approximately £160 million, the club offers extravagant amenities, including an on-site heliport, yacht services, and a wide array of spa services.
By request from a dear friend, a few from Liberty National Golf Club in Jersey City, NJ. No course offers better views of New York City and its various landmarks – I’m not sure there’s another course in the country that provides as good and as dramatic a view of a city skyline. pic.twitter.com/0z9z7FLIFV
— LinksGems Golf Photos (@LinksGems) November 30, 2021
1. The Madison Club, California
Topping our list is The Madison Club, an esteemed and exclusive establishment nestled in La Quinta, California. With a remarkable membership initiation fee of £400,000, it sets the standard for luxury and exclusivity in the golf club realm.
The club has gained significant popularity, partly attributed to its roster of high-profile members, which includes prominent figures such as members of the Kardashian family and Apple CEO Tim Cook, among others.
The Tom-Fazio designed Madison Club in California is a work of art. Part of the Discovery Land stable of residential-style golf courses, it meanders through the desert where its free-flowing triple-tier greens demand strategy and precision.#TrackManSimulator #GolfSimulator pic.twitter.com/MZQnRwROEQ
— Trackman Golf (@TrackManGolf) November 4, 2021
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