Full Breakdown
John Daly's Masters Tradition Faces Change After Hooters Demolition
4/8/2026, 4:41:11 PM
The End of an Era: Hooters Demolished
John Daly, the two-time Major winner, has been a fixture at the Masters since 1997, famously setting up shop at a Hooters restaurant near Augusta National. Each year, he greeted fans from his RV, selling merchandise such as hats, golf balls, and cigars, while creating a unique atmosphere that diverged from the strict rules of Augusta National. However, this tradition faced a significant setback when the Hooters on Washington Road was demolished in November 2023, following the company's Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing and the closure of around 30 locations across the United States.
Daly's merchandise sales at the Hooters were substantial; he reportedly earned $780,000 in 2024 alone, a figure that could have been exceeded in subsequent years. The closure of the restaurant not only disrupts Daly's routine but also represents a loss of a cultural touchpoint for fans who appreciated his accessible and personable approach.
Adapting to Change: New Venue at Topgolf
In light of the Hooters demolition, Daly has announced plans to relocate his fan meet-and-greet to Augusta Topgolf, situated approximately five miles from Augusta National. While it remains uncertain whether he will be able to sell signed souvenirs at this new venue, Daly expressed enthusiasm about the change. He stated, “This week has always been about the fans as much as the golf... we’re bringing that energy to Topgolf, where people can grab a drink, take some swings, and just have a good time together.”
Daly will be present at Topgolf on Thursday and Friday during the Masters, continuing his tradition of engaging with fans in a relaxed setting. This shift, while different from the iconic Hooters experience, aims to maintain the celebratory spirit that has characterized his presence at the Masters.
Cultural Impact and Fan Connection
Daly's connection with fans has been a defining aspect of his legacy at the Masters. Sportswriter Lauren Beasley noted that there have been instances where fans lined up longer to see Daly than to access the course itself. His approachability and willingness to engage with fans—signing autographs and taking photos—have made him a beloved figure in the golfing community.
The demolition of the Hooters has been described as a loss of one of the last open-air pressure valves of the Augusta ecosystem, highlighting the cultural significance of Daly's tradition. As the Masters begins, with Rory McIlroy defending his title, the absence of the Hooters will be felt by many who cherished the unique atmosphere Daly cultivated over the years.
Official Statements & Responses
Daly's team confirmed the financial impact of the Hooters closure, emphasizing the substantial earnings he generated from merchandise sales. Daly himself remarked on the importance of fan interaction, stating, “I’m looking forward to kicking back, meeting some folks, and keeping the party going after the rounds.”
What's Next
As the Masters unfolds, Daly's adaptation to Topgolf will be closely watched by fans and media alike. The shift represents not only a change in venue but also a continuation of Daly's commitment to engaging with his supporters, ensuring that the spirit of his Masters tradition endures despite the loss of the Hooters location.
