My Fave Photos

Robert Beck, who got his first assignment for SI in 1988, has shot more golf tournaments--almost 160 and counting--than any other photographer in the 53-year history of the magazine. Here are his most memorable images from the 2007 season.

APRIL 8 Masters, Augusta National Golf Club, Augusta, Ga.

When Tiger Woods hit this shot from next to a tree right of the 11th fairway, I never saw his face as he recoiled from the tree and spun away. Darn it! It wasn't until after midnight at my hotel that I saw the image at full resolution. The club wrapped around the tree--and the ball! It was a lucky score, and our Masters cover.

MAY 13 Players Championship,TPC Sawgrass, Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla.

You think Tour pros aren't working hard? Think they don't feel the pressure? Take a close look at Phil Mickelson's face on the 1st green. I know he won the tournament, but to be honest, I can't remember if he made this putt or not.

FEB.�9 AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am, Pebble Beach Golf Links, Pebble Beach, Calif.

Some people get tired of Bill Murray's antics. Not me. I could shoot him 365�days a year. He's funny and wears his game on his sleeve. We followed him for three days at the Pro-Am, and I could print a book of the great pictures we made over those 54�holes. This birdie attempt--yes, really--at the 9th at Poppy Hills lipped out, and any number of lines from Caddyshack could be inserted in this caption. You know you're laughing to yourself right now. So is Bill.

JULY 21 British Open, Carnoustie Golf Links, Carnoustie, Scotland

Jim Furyk could not have backed himself any closer to the fence. He went over his options with a rules official several times, and this stance was his best bet. All the fans were craning over that fence trying to get a closer look at the shot. That is one of the great things about golf: If any of the players hit from off the fairway and you, the spectator, are nearby, you can get almost as close as you want. You can hear caddie-player conversations. You can see which club he is using. A divot might even splatter your cardigan! Try and see if you can get that close at an NFL game.

JAN.�28 Buick Invitational, Torrey Pines Golf Course, La Jolla, Calif.