Zach Johnson Prepares for 21st Masters with Wisdom and Gratitude

AUGUSTA, Ga. — As the 2025 Masters approaches, Zach Johnson draws on two decades of experience and mental preparation to navigate the iconic tournament. From April 6-9, Johnson will compete alongside the world’s best golfers at Augusta National Golf Club, a course he knows intimately after 20 previous appearances.

For Johnson, every spring in Augusta presents an opportunity to merge his skill set with the predictability of the course’s layout. Yet, the unpredictability of tournament results keeps him grounded. “That’s the game of golf,” he said. “The moment you think you have it, the weight of it can come down on you.”

Mastering mental preparation has become a crucial component of Johnson’s success. He employs visualization techniques, breath work, and strategic self-talk to harness his experiences, including his pivotal 2007 victory. Johnson acknowledges that keeping expectations in check allowed him to perform freely during that triumph.

“I could see that the work I put in prior to that week was starting to surface, and it was good enough,” Johnson recalled. “Thinking, ‘I feel good now…I just need to go play,’ transformed my mindset.”

With 20 tournaments behind him, Johnson has amassed invaluable lessons; however, the weight of accumulated wisdom can also create pressure. “You have this wealth of knowledge…but I kind of wish I could push reset on a lot of things. I rely on what I know almost to a fault,” he admitted.

In hopes of recapturing the carefree spirit of his earlier years, he focuses on letting go of his extensive knowledge, recalling that he won the Masters early in his career with a lighter mentality. “I kind of wish I could have a clean slate and forget all that I know and go back and start over again,” he said.

Despite the pressure, Johnson believes that winning looks different for everyone, highlighting the diverse success stories at the Masters. “If you look at the list of individuals who have success there, you see everything,” he explained.

Johnson’s approach to the tournament has evolved over the years. In earlier tournaments, the anticipation consumed him, influencing his game strategy. However, he learned to embrace authenticity by recognizing his personal strengths. “You can be you and go out and compete,” he said.

Utilizing modern techniques, he has developed what he calls his ‘perfect breathing architecture,’ enabling him to stay calm and focused during competition. “It’s amazing what you can do just through proper breathing and understanding how your senses correlate with your reactions,” Johnson noted.

Visualization is also an essential part of Johnson’s routine. “It can be as simple as visualizing where my feet will be during that first shot of the day or picturing a tricky putt,” he stated.

Johnson recognizes that these techniques grant him familiarity and confidence, easing the anxiety that often accompanies such a prestigious tournament. “That way when you get there, and you’re starting the competition, it’s almost as if you’ve been there before,” he explained.

As the tournament day approaches, Johnson emphasizes the importance of gratitude. Reflecting on past experiences, he is determined to enjoy each round and continue putting in the effort required for success. “If you can go into each day with that attitude of gratitude, you’re already in a pretty darn good position,” he reaffirmed.