‘Age is so cruel’ – Jack Nicklaus sparks health fears at Masters as 85-year-old is helped to starting tee by wife

JACK Nicklaus has sparked health concerns after completing the ceremonial tee shot ahead of The Masters.

Nicklaus made his usual appearance at Augusta National to kick off the biggest weekend of the golf year.

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Jack Nicklaus sparked health concerns during his appearance at The Masters[/caption]

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Nicklaus appeared to have trouble walking up to the tee for the ceremony[/caption]

The golf legend strolled up to the tee box at 85 years old to start The Masters on Thursday.

However, Nicklaus’ appearance left some fans concerned for the six-time Masters winner.

He was clutching his wife’s shoulder as he walked up to the tee and leaned against his driver while standing during the opening ceremony.

Nicklaus has undergone stem cell treatments for back pain in the past.

He previously detailed how he was struggling to walk because of the pain.

While he looked to be supporting himself against his wife during the walkup, Nicklaus confidently walked across the tee box on his own after his name was called.

“Jack, the tee is yours,” Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley said.

“Maybe,” Nicklaus joked, “if I don’t fall down putting this in the ground.”

He went on to successfully tee his ball up and shout “I won!” to a round of applause from the crowd.

“Watch out,” he said before driving his ball off the tee.

Nicklaus went on to pick up his tee and walk off the tee box to return to his wife.

After the ceremony, many fans took to social media to express their love for Nicklaus, but also their concern for him.

“Age is so cruel,” one fan said.

“I think my eyes got misty watching that… especially Nicklaus,” another fan said.

“Every year we get with these guys is a blessing,” a third fan said.

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Nicklaus successfully completed a ceremonial tee shot ahead of The Masters[/caption]

“I still get misty-eyed,” a fourth fan said.

“This gets me every time,” a fifth fan said.

This year’s Masters is 62 years since Nicklaus won his first of six green jackets.

He collected his wins in 1963, 1965, 1966, 1972, 1975, and 1986.

Tiger Woods is the next closest player with five Masters wins.