From Augusta to eBay: Fans' outrageous attempts to recoup Masters expenses
AUGUSTA, GEORGIA - APRIL 06: Bags of Masters merchandise are carried during the Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Augusta National Golf Club at Augusta National Golf Club on April 06, 2025 in Augusta, Georgia. (Photo by)
(Richard Heathcote via Getty Images)
Going to the Masters is the pinnacle experience for golf enthusiasts, a must on many fans' bucket lists. Whether you're charmed by Augusta's quirky rules, enamored with its storied history, or secretly delighted to watch professional golfers crumble under pressure, the allure is undeniable. But let's be honest — attending isn't exactly cheap. Lottery winners might snag weekend badges for around $450, but most fans end up shelling out thousands once you factor in lodging, flights, meals, merchandise, and perhaps even a humbling round of golf with rental clubs.
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Naturally, some fans try creative ways to offset these expenses. While reselling exclusive merchandise is somewhat understandable, others get surprisingly inventive (and a bit shameless). Here are six hilariously questionable ways people attempted to recoup their Masters trip expenses in 2024:
Empty Water Bottles and Store Shopping Bag - $4.99
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Yes, you read that correctly. Someone successfully sold empty water bottles alongside a used plastic shopping bag from the Masters gift shop. It appears even disposable items hold value if they boast that prestigious Augusta logo.
2024 Masters Spectator Guide - Augusta National Golf Club - $5.99
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This free pamphlet, given out to spectators as a helpful souvenir, somehow managed to find a buyer despite likely being folded and crammed in a sweaty pocket all weekend. Clearly, there's always someone willing to pay for a piece of the experience, even one that's creased and slightly damp.
Vintage Official Masters Golf Tournament Augusta Cocktail Napkins - $13.50
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Imagine the scenario: You've enjoyed a snack at the Masters and absentmindedly stuffed a few napkins into your pocket. Congratulations, you've accidentally invested in Masters collectibles. Even slightly stained, these napkins found an eager buyer.
AUGUSTA, GEORGIA - APRIL 09: Patrons eat as they sit with their golf shop merchandise purchases during practice prior to the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 9, 2025 in Augusta, Georgia. (Photo by Ben Jared/PGA TOUR via Getty Images)
(Ben Jared via Getty Images)
6x 2024 Masters Green Cups - $60
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Who knew saving your used beverage cups throughout the week could be so lucrative? These plastic cups, undoubtedly once filled with lemonade or beer, fetched $60. One fan's trash truly is another fan's treasure.
6x Masters Augusta National Practice Golf Balls - $24
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We're stepping into ethically murky waters here, but somehow these practice balls ended up in someone's bag and subsequently on eBay. Grass stains included, these well loved balls were quickly snapped up by a buyer eager for authentic Augusta dirt.
2024 Masters Ticket Badge - $125
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The most understandable and legitimate resale item on this list is your Masters event badge. Collecting event badges and ticket stubs has surged in popularity, making them a viable way to reclaim some costs from your weekend adventure. You can find badges dating back decades , commemorating your favorite golfer's career milestones.
Of course, it should go without saying, but I'll say it anyway: this article is all in good fun. Any attempts to remove unauthorized items from Augusta National's grounds are illegal and can ruin the experience for you and your fellow golf fans. So, stick to buying merch from the gift shop and leave the napkins and practice balls alone!
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