It was a proud weekend for the Illini golf program as two alums competed in the prestigious Masters Tournament. Belgium native, Thomas Pieters, made his Masters debut, earning a fourth place finish, while Steve Stricker checked in at No. 16 in the leaderboard. 

What an exciting weekend following @Thomas_Pieters & @stevestricker at #TheMasters! Some great golf was played! #IlliniGolfTradition

— Illini M Golf (@IlliniMGolf) April 9, 2017

Great finish at @TheMasters!@Thomas_Pieters and @stevestricker making @IlliniMGolf proud yet again! Great pros, great friends, great Illini!

— Mike Small (@MikeSmall4) April 9, 2017

Pieters was on fire throughout the tournament, pulling into the lead during his first-ever round at Augusta. 

Thomas Pieters (-5) now has a three-shot lead.

Unbelievable score on such a windy day. #TheMasters Tracker: https://t.co/bkkwARWliy pic.twitter.com/vpBkVeqVMz

— Golfweek (@golfweek) April 6, 2017

Masters 2017: Thomas Pieters | 8th Hole, Round 1 pic.twitter.com/euSFVchpQJ

— Masters Highlights (@MastersMoments) April 6, 2017

Stricker also had a strong showing through the windy first round of play.

14 of 14. ??

Steve Stricker was the only player to hit every fairway in Round 1.#TheMasters pic.twitter.com/78GoyyPPW2

— PGA TOUR Champions (@ChampionsTour) April 7, 2017

Stricker held strong among the top players throughout the tournament, while Pieters maintained his push for the green jacket until the final holes.

???????? #Illini https://t.co/3I0UDNqupG

— Illini M Golf (@IlliniMGolf) April 9, 2017