Nicklaus to join Palmer as 2010 Masters starter

AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — Jack Nicklaus has a tee time again at the Masters.

Augusta National announced Monday that Nicklaus will join Arnold Palmer as an honorary starter for next year’s Masters.

Nicklaus is a six-time Masters champion who last played the tournament in 2005. He says he accepted the invitation because it was also supported by Palmer, his longtime friend who began hitting the ceremonial tee shot in 2007.

Nicklaus will become the eighth honorary starter. The tradition began at the Masters in 1963, when Nicklaus won his first green jacket.

The 2010 Masters is scheduled for April 5-11.

Copyright 2009 The Associated Press.