Augusta National has broken with an 80-year-old tradition by adding two females to its list of members - former US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and business executive Darla Moore.
The home of The Masters since 1934 had been put under increased pressure in recent years to do away with its all-male membership policy, a contentious and widely debated issue that intensified under Hootie Johnson's stewardship as club chairman.
Rice and Moore will now become the first women to wear green jackets when the club opens for the start of a new season in October.
"This is a joyous occasion as we enthusiastically welcome Secretary Condoleezza Rice and Darla Moore as members of Augusta National Golf Club," said Augusta club chairman Billy Payne.
"These accomplished women share our passion for the game of golf and both are well known and respected by our membership. It will be a proud moment when we present Condoleezza and Darla their Green Jackets when the club opens this Fall."
Rice, 57, served as the national security adviser in George Bush's first term, before becoming Secretary of State in his second. She is currently a professor of political economy at Stanford University.
"I am delighted and honoured to be a member of Augusta National Golf Club," she said.
"I have visited Augusta National on several occasions and look forward to playing golf, renewing friendships and forming new ones through this very special opportunity."
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