How do players feel about the changes to No. 13?

If finally happened last year: Augusta National built a new back tee measuring 545 yards, adding 35 yards to the iconic 13th hole at the Masters Tournament.

The 13th ranks as one of the great risk-reward holes in golf. Going for it should be a “momentous decision,” in the words of Bobby Jones, who assisted Alister MacKenzie in its design. It originally measured 480 yards when the Masters debuted in 1934 and played to 510 yards for the 2022 Masters. But that distance is shorter than many par-4s in major championship golf these days. One year later, we asked pros what they thought of the change and the Survey Says: mixed reviews at best. Making this change to the course was a momentous decision in its own right and one that time will tell whether it was the right one. We’ll also have to wait and see if and how the rolling back of the golf ball will impact how one of the great par-5s in golf is played in the future.

Brian Harman walks on the 13th hole during a practice round prior to the 2022 Masters at Augusta National Golf Club. (Photo: Andrew Redington/Getty Images)

I wish they made it play longer. To me, the fairest par 5s are where everyone can get there or no one can get there. 

Gary Player, a three-time winner of the Masters, pull the cover from his club as he prepares for a practice round for the 1989 Masters at Augusta National Golf Club.

The changes were necessary because the players are hitting the ball so far now. I’m not sure how much more they can take the tee back. 

Gary Woodland at the 2023 Masters. (Photo: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Network)

I loved it before. I always hit 3-wood so it’s not too big of a difference for me. The weather was tough last year. I want to see how it plays with better weather. I love having a chance to make 3 so as long as we can still get home and make some eagles and get the crowd roaring that’s what I’d like to see. 

Kevin Kisner, Hudson Swafford and Harris English walk the Nelson Bridge atr the 13th hole at the 2021 Masters at Augusta National Golf Club. (Photo: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

I like it. I was leery about it going into last year’s Masters but I get why they did it. The hole wasn’t designed for you take it over the trees. It makes it a true par 5. You have a 4-iron off the side of a slope instead of an 8 iron. 

Jason Day at the 2018 Masters…