From April 7-10th, the world’s best players teed up at Augusta National Golf Club to contest the first Major of 2016. Demonstrating the integral role of Mercedes-Benz, Global Sponsor of the Masters Tournament, the field included brand ambassadors from across the generations; BernhardLanger, who returned for his 33rd Masters Tournament, Martin Kaymer in action for his 9th and Rickie Fowler for the 6th time. Langer played his 111th competitive round at Augusta National Golf Club – more than any other European golfer – he played with the wisdom and conviction that comes with being a former winner of the iconic Green Jacket. The two-time Masters Champion said: “The Masters is a fantastic tournament at a great venue and I enjoy going back each year. It is a unique place.”
“Mercedes-Benz is driven to support the world’s best tournaments as a partner. We are proud to have ambassadorsacross generations playing in the 80th Masters tournament, the most prestigious golf tournament in the world,” said Dr Jens Thiemer, Vice President Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars. “The Tournament holds a unique position in the world of sport and we are delighted to partner with The Masters for the ninth year.” Mercedes-Benz will provide all players and selected guests of Augusta National Golf Club with an exclusive vehicle service featuring the GL SUV and S-Class Convertible for the week of the Tournament. In addition, each brand ambassador will receive a second vehicle courtesy of Mercedes-Benz. Traditionally, Mercedes-Benz customers from around the world interact with the brand ambassadors at exclusive meet & greets.
But Mercedes-Benz’s role at the 2016 Masters Tournament goes far beyond the breadth of ambassadors in the field. All customers will be given a demonstration of the S-Class Convertible, C-Class Coupé and SUVs such as the G500 during Tournament week. Mercedes-Benz’s involvement in professional golf dates back to the 1980s. Having been an International Partner of the Masters Tournament from 2008 to 2013, Mercedes-Benz has been one of three Global Sponsors since 2014. Thanks to its association with the PGA of America, which has existed since 2010, the brand with the Star is represented as Official Vehicle and Official Patron at the PGA Championship, the Senior PGA Championship and the Ryder Cup.
In 2011, Mercedes-Benz’s involvement in golf was extended to include a partnership with The Open, the world’s oldest golf tournament. Mercedes-Benz also sponsors several amateur and professional tournaments at national level.