Collin Morikawa has revealed that his favourite Masters tradition is taking the pencils from Augusta National, but the two-time major champion admits a recent change to longer pencils has left him 'screwed'. Speaking at a press conference ahead of the Arnold Palmer Invitational, the 29-year-old was asked about his favourite Masters tradition.
After the reporter suggested examples such as having a pimento cheese sandwich or watching the ceremonial first shot, Morikawa responded: 'I take their pencils every year. I probably shouldn't say that. They have gone to longer pencils, so now I'm screwed.' He added that he also takes pencils from Pebble Beach, saying: 'Pebble's are staying in the bag, but, you know, I always take a couple, I guess, pencils.'
Morikawa has yet to win at Augusta but has three top-ten finishes from six starts, including a tied-third finish two years ago when he was just one shot behind overnight leader Scottie Scheffler before a final-round 74. The 2021 Open champion recently ended an 848-day win drought at the Pebble Beach Pro-Am, earning a £3 million prize and a place in the 2026 signature event.
Reflecting on his mindset, Morikawa said: 'I think just overall mindset, I've been a lot - happier is not the right word - but just in a lot better headspace to trust my golf game.' He emphasised the importance of staying focused and not becoming complacent as he prepares for the Masters.
