Joaquin Niemann of LIV Golf has been granted a special invitation to return to the Masters for the second consecutive year, following a tradition of Augusta National that allows select international players not fully qualified for the tournament to compete. Alongside him, Nicolai Hojgaard received a similarly coveted invitation, making this event notable for the eventual participation of twins, as Hojgaard’s brother Rasmus is already qualified due to his top 50 rank globally.

This year's Masters will be significant as it marks the first time that twins will compete together in the prestigious tournament, scheduled for April 10-13, 2024. Joaquin Niemann, currently ranked 71st in the world, has been highlighted by Augusta National for demonstrating his talent on global circuits, including a solid performance in various competitions leading up to the Masters. He finished fifth in the Australian PGA Championship, tied for fourth in the Dubai Desert Classic, and won the Saudi International on the Asian Tour.

Nicolai Hojgaard, hailing from Denmark, made an impressive Masters debut last year and briefly held the lead at one point during the third round, finishing in a respectable tie for 16th. The 23-year-old ranked 60th in the world has shown promising form with a seventh-place finish at the Tokyo Olympics and consistent performances on the DP World Tour.

Augusta National's chairman, Fred Ridley, expressed the club's commitment to enhancing the global appeal of golf, stating, “In support of Augusta National’s efforts to develop interest in golf globally, deserving international players not otherwise qualified have been invited throughout the tournament's history." The inclusion of both Niemann and Hojgaard continues this tradition, with Ridley emphasizing their talent showcased on various stages worldwide.

These invitations, especially Niemann’s repeat qualification, illustrate Augusta National's progressive approach in widening the net for potential competitors, particularly those from LIV Golf, which has faced challenges related to world ranking points and qualification pathways since its inception. As preparations for the Masters unfold, all eyes will be on the unique storyline of the Hojgaard twins competing simultaneously in one of golf’s most illustrious events.

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