'Master Champion Jack Nicklaus Presides over Ceremony Following Honorary Tee Off'

After attempting to avoid causing harm with his ceremonial tee shot on Thursday, honorary Masters starter Jack Nicklaus shared his opinions on the PGA Tour, LIV Golf, and some of the sport's top players.

The six-time Masters champion was joined by Gary Player (three green jackets) and Tom Watson (two) on the first tee and later in the press room at Augusta National Golf Club.

"When I approach the tee, I make sure not to trip," Nicklaus, 85, said when asked about his strategy for the first hole. "Next, I make sure to get the tee in the ground without falling over, and finally, I try not to hit anyone. Don't laugh too much; those are actually my thoughts.

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"In fact, after that, I just stand up and try to make a short swing. I don't have to work on that, I just make contact and hit it somewhere that won't hurt anyone."

All three men agreed that Rory McIlroy is the player to beat this week in Augusta, Georgia, as he aims to complete a career grand slam.

"I had lunch with Rory last week and we were talking about his preparation for Augusta," Nicklaus said. "We went through each shot and when he finished, I didn't say a word. I told him, 'I wouldn't change a thing. That's exactly how I would play the course.'"

When asked about the potential merger of the PGA Tour and the breakaway LIV Golf circuit, Nicklaus expressed his desire to see them come together, but also believes the PGA Tour is doing well on its own.

"They have changed their structure and the players now have ownership in the tour," he said. "Their plan of elevated events and developing young players has been successful. We are creating new stars for the game.

"I believe the PGA Tour is the tour and that's where most of the top players are. It's very healthy no matter what happens, but we would all like to see everyone come together."

In addition to discussing McIlroy and defending Masters champion Scottie Scheffler, Nicklaus was asked about the older rivalry between Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson.

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"I'm not sure what level Phil is competing at. Is he still playing? Is he playing on the LIV Tour?" Nicklaus questioned. "I don't know, you don't see that anymore.

"But Tiger is injured. I believe he will recover and return to play. He will be 50 next year and I think he will play on the Senior Tour (Champions) and dominate. Tiger is too much of a competitor to not play."

Nicklaus ended with some advice on how to bounce back from disappointments.

"You try not to have them," the "Golden Bear" joked, eliciting laughter. "But that's part of life. You're going to have them, so you try not to let them dominate your thoughts. Stay positive and keep moving forward."