Masters Tournament 2026: A New Chapter in Golf
The 90th edition of the Masters Tournament is set to begin on April 9, 2026, at Augusta National Golf Club. Following Rory McIlroy’s recent victory, the spotlight now turns to the 73 players who have yet to claim the prestigious green jacket. Among them, Scottie Scheffler stands out as the betting favorite, having won the Masters twice and maintaining a top ranking for nearly three years. As the tournament approaches, golf enthusiasts are eager to witness how the event will unfold amidst ongoing changes in the sport.
Tournament Schedule
The Masters will take place from April 9 to April 12, preserving its traditional timing during the first full week of April. Golf legends Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, and Tom Watson are scheduled to perform the ceremonial tee shots at 7:30 a.m. on Thursday before the opening round.
On April 8, the Par 3 Contest will occur, a cherished event that began in 1960. This event showcases both seasoned Masters players and their young caddies, often their children.
Current Field and Notable Absences
The tournament will feature 91 players, adhering to Augusta National’s preference for a field of fewer than 100, a practice in place since 1967. Notably, Tiger Woods will miss the Masters for the second consecutive year due to health issues exacerbated by a recent DUI arrest. Woods has pleaded not guilty and is currently seeking treatment. Phil Mickelson will also be absent from the tournament for only the third time as a professional golfer, citing a personal health matter affecting his family.
Pre-Masters Events
The Augusta National Women’s Amateur will kick off the weekend before the Masters, culminating in its final round at Augusta National. This event follows a two-round cut at Champions Retreat.
Viewing Options
Fans have numerous options to watch the Masters. The rounds on Thursday and Friday will start at 1 p.m. ET on Prime Video, transitioning to ESPN at 3 p.m. for coverage until 7:30 p.m. Weekend coverage will begin on Paramount+ at noon, with CBS broadcasting live from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. Additionally, the Masters will offer live video channels on its official website, featuring various viewing options, including featured pairings and live action from iconic holes.
Course Updates
While the course remains largely unchanged, some minor adjustments have been made, including a reduction of 12 yards at the front of the 17th tee.
New Developments Off the Course
A new Player Services Building has been constructed behind the driving range, providing modern amenities such as an indoor parking garage, a gym, and dining facilities for players and their families. For attendees, the Masters will feature a new concession item, a candy bar aptly named ‘Candy Bar.’
Betting Favorites
Scheffler leads the betting odds at +500, followed by McIlroy and DeChambeau at +1000, former champion Jon Rahm at +1200, and Ludvig Aberg and Xander Schauffele at +1400, according to BetMGM Sportsbook.
Recap of Last Year
Last year’s tournament featured a dramatic playoff between Rory McIlroy and Justin Rose, culminating in McIlroy’s victory. This win marked his achievement of the career Grand Slam.
First-Time Participants
Among the 22 newcomers is Chris Gotterup, who has made history by winning four tournaments before his first Masters appearance. He secured his spot by winning the Scottish Open and has since won the Sony Open and Phoenix Open. Other first-time players include Ben Griffin and Jacob Bridgeman, both ranked in the top 20 globally, along with Kristoffer Reitan and Rasmus Neergaard-Peterson from Denmark.
