The 2025 Masters are here, and fans are expected to witness some fine shots of golf — but how about an MLB legend making his debut behind the lens? It might sound ridiculous, but that’s exactly what’s happening at this year’s Masters. Currently near the top of the scoreboard are some of the biggest names in the sport, including Scottie Scheffler, the 2024 Masters champion; Rory McIlroy and Bryson DeChambeau. Naturally, all of that could change drastically in the upcoming play — or even over the next few holes. But beyond all these familiar faces, fans shouldn’t be surprised to spot MLB Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr. in a brand-new role.

Despite fighting injuries throughout his career, the 10x Gold Glover left a lasting impression with his amazing baseball accomplishments, hitting an incredible 630 home runs. That’s enough for a career No. 7 on MLB’s all-time HR list. In his post-retirement age, Griffey now serves as MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred’s special counsel on baseball operations and the development of young players.

While that’s all in the expected line, his passion for photography has now made him set a new record.

Well, fans wouldn’t be blamed if they assumed Griffey was just attending the Masters out of love for photography. However, the 55-year-old is not merely a spectator at golf’s biggest tournament. Rather, Griffey is a certified photographer at the event! Sports insider Joe Pompliano shared the first glimpse of Griffey donning a camera and capturing the action. While it marks a new era, the fans seem unimpressed — and they’re making their frustrations known on X.

Fans are left frustrated with Griffey 

One fan shared why he’s “not OK with this,” citing the large number of professional sports photographers still waiting for a chance. While it’s understandable that the Masters might want to leverage Griffey’s star power for publicity, it’s worth noting that Griffey isn’t just a hobbyist. Reportedly, he’s worked as a certified photographer at several major sporting events, including an NFL game (Cowboys vs. Cardinals) and the MLB Home Run Derby. So yes, he has built a professional sports photography portfolio.

Surprisingly, the fans are not excited to see Griffey in the new role. An enthusiast shared how he hates to see Griffey in the new role. Well, if Randy Johnson can, then why not Griffey? It would be too early to conclude that Griffey cannot offer some classic shots, similar to what Golf Digest photographer Ben Walton had done. Yes, these are the areas to be taken over by the hardcore professionals, but it would just take a few classic shots by Griffey to turn the tables.

Some are calling Griffey’s Master’s photography gig “a classic example of the rich getting richer.” After all, Griffey earned $172 million during his 22-year MLB career, not to mention his endorsement deals. While there’s no official word on photographer pay at the Masters, estimates range from $4,000 to $8,000. So the big question becomes: Why can’t an established name follow his passion?

What does it take for a photographer to get into a sports arena? A user shared his experience of not getting entry to the American Football League despite having worked for Nat Geo. Well, working for Nat Geo surely reflects an impressive portfolio, but is that enough for sports photography? Griffey got his hands on wildlife photography as well as worked in different sports leagues, which makes his portfolio more diverse. However. Griffey might have had a smoother route to get to the Masters.

Yes, Griffey has started his second journey with photography based on his passion. Might be his livelihood is not also depending on photography. That is what makes a fan furious about how a photographer doing it for a livelihood doesn’t get credentials, while someone doing it in passion gets an official entry to the Masters. It is debatable how Griffey is inducted at the Masters, but undoubtedly, this will serve their promotional need well. In how many cases does a professional sports event have a Hall of Famer as its official photographer?

Griffey is now in the Masters, and let’s see how it goes. Maybe the fans would be spoiled with some classic shots, or maybe not. It’s just too early to comment on the eligibility of Griffey as a photographer.

What do you think about Ken Griffey working as an official photographer at the Masters? Hit the comment box below for your thoughts.