Elder broke down racial barriers as the first Black golfer to play in the Masters and paved the way for Tiger Woods and others to follow. Chris Carlson/AP Show More Show Lessģ of18 4 of18 FILE - Lee Elder watches the flight of his ball as he tees off in the first round of play at the Masters in Augusta, Ga., in this April 10, 1975, file photo. No cause or details were immediately available, but the tour said it spoke with Elder's family. The PGA Tour confirmed Elder’s death, which was first reported by Debert Cook of African American Golfers Digest.
(Curtis Compton /Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP) Curtis Compton/AP Show More Show Less 2 of18 FILE - Lee Elder poses for a picture at the Masters golf tournament Monday, Nov. No cause was given, but the tour confirmed Elder's death with his family. The PGA Tour announced Elder’s death, which was first reported Monday by Debert Cook of African American Golfers Digest. Lee Elder, who broke down racial barriers as the first Black golfer to play in the Masters and paved the way for Tiger Woods and others to follow, has died at the age of 87. 1 of18 Honorary starter Lee Elder, left, is applauded by fellow honorary starters Gary Player, center, and Jack Nicklaus during introductions for the ceremonial tee shots to begin the Masters golf tournament at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Ga., Thursday, April 8, 2021.