Fred Ridley’s journey from municipal golf courses in Florida to the helm of Augusta National Golf Club is a remarkable one. Best known today as the Chairman of Augusta National and the Masters Tournament, Ridley has maintained a quiet but impactful presence in the golf world. As of 2025, Fred Ridley’s estimated net worth is around $5 million, largely attributed to his distinguished law career and long-standing service in amateur golf administration rather than commercial endeavors or professional play.
At age 72, Ridley remains one of the most respected figures in golf, not for flashy PGA wins, but for the dignity, consistency, and integrity he brings to the sport’s most hallowed grounds.
The Last U.S. Amateur Champion to Stay Amateur
Born in Lakeland, Florida, and raised in Winter Haven, Fred Ridley grew up far from the polished fairways of Augusta. He honed his skills on public courses, eventually earning a spot on the University of Florida golf team in the early 1970s. Despite being part of a national championship-winning squad in 1973, Ridley struggled to break into the starting lineup.
But perseverance paid off. In 1975, Ridley pulled off a Cinderella run at the U.S. Amateur Championship, beating heavyweights like Curtis Strange and Andy Bean before taking down Keith Fergus in a tense 36-hole final. That victory not only etched his name on the Havemeyer Trophy but also earned him invitations to the Masters, U.S. Open, and British Open—all without turning pro.
Unlike many of his peers, Ridley chose law school over the tour. He enrolled at Stetson University College of Law, balancing golf commitments with academics. His decision mirrored that of his idol Bobby Jones, the legendary amateur who co-founded Augusta National and also practiced law.
The Jack Nicklaus Moment That Changed Everything
Ridley’s moment of clarity came during the 1976 Masters, when he was paired with Jack Nicklaus for the opening round. At the turn, both men were at 1-under. By the 18th, Nicklaus had fired a 67, and Ridley carded a 77.
“It might have been when I walked off the ninth tee tied with Jack,” Ridley later reflected. “And he beat me by 10 shots. That might’ve been my ah-ha moment.”
He never turned pro but didn’t walk away from the game either. He competed in the Masters three times (1976–78), staying in the iconic Crow’s Nest and playing practice rounds with legends like Sam Snead. Though he never made the cut, the experience helped shape his reverence for the game.
Building a Career in Law and Golf Leadership
Professionally, Ridley carved out a successful legal career. He’s currently a partner at Foley & Lardner LLP, a global law firm where he chairs the Real Estate Practice. His role has brought him financial security, with his net worth estimated at $5 million in 2025, a modest figure by golf elite standards, but indicative of his chosen path of substance over spectacle.
While growing in the legal world, Ridley remained deeply committed to amateur golf. He captained the U.S. Walker Cup teams in 1987 and 1989, led the 2010 World Amateur Team, and served on the USGA Executive Committee from 1994 to 2005, becoming its President in 2004–05.
Augusta National’s First Chairman to Play in the Masters
Ridley joined Augusta National in 2000, and in 2007 became Chairman of the Competition Committee, gaining widespread respect for his thoughtful, measured approach. That leadership was tested in 2013, when a rules controversy involving Tiger Woods erupted. Ridley opted not to disqualify Woods for an incorrect drop, citing committee error—a decision backed by the USGA and R&A in a rare joint statement.
In 2017, Ridley succeeded Billy Payne as Augusta National Chairman, becoming the first chairman to have played in the Masters Tournament. His appointment was seen as a nod to the club’s traditional values and its deep connection to amateur golf.
Modernizing the Masters with Respect for Tradition
Though Ridley is known for his calm demeanor, his influence has already been felt at Augusta. Under his leadership, the club has continued its subtle course renovations. His most significant early project involved plans to relocate the fifth hole’s tee box, enabled by the acquisition of land from the former Berckmans Road alignment.
He’s also overseen land deals with neighboring Augusta Country Club, creating room for future enhancements along Amen Corner—the 11th, 12th, and 13th holes.
Importantly, Ridley brings a player’s perspective to course adjustments. Steve Melnyk, a fellow amateur champion, believes Ridley’s background gives him a unique lens: “With Fred you’ve got a chance to make the course better. Not necessarily harder, but better in subtle ways.”
Family, Legacy, and a Perfect Head of Hair
Fred has been married to Betsy Ridley for over 40 years, and they share three daughters: Maggie, Libby, and Sydney. In early 2024, they welcomed their first grandchild through daughter Libby.
Golf has always been part of the Ridley household. Betsy’s honeymoon included stops at the Eastern Amateur, the Walker Cup, and the U.S. Amateur, and all three daughters grew up around the game. A viral photo shows the family together on Hogan Bridge at the 12th hole, symbolic of their deep bond with Augusta.
Then there’s the hair. Ridley’s flawless coiffure even earned its own hashtag: #Fredshair. “Fortunately, I’ve kept it all,” he jokes.
A Custodian of Jones’ Legacy
Fred Ridley sees his role at Augusta not as a disruptor, but as a custodian of tradition, echoing the values of Bobby Jones and Clifford Roberts. His goal is simple yet profound: to leave the club and the Masters stronger than he found them.
“They are the ones that established the mandate of constant improvement,” Ridley said. “If I follow that, I’ll be in a position when my time is over to pass this honor on even stronger.”
As Augusta continues to evolve, Ridley’s stewardship blends grace, intellect, and respect for golf’s storied past—an ideal combination for the sacred grounds he now oversees.
