The Masters is set to kick off the men’s major season, with Rory McIlroy returning a year after his emotional victory that secured the grand slam. His win over Justin Rose in a thrilling play-off has raised the stakes for the drama expected at Augusta National next week. However, with Tiger Woods’ recent DUI arrest and subsequent withdrawal from the field—despite his exemption as a past champion—the focus now shifts to the golf itself.
Scottie Scheffler has managed a challenging run of form, though it’s not up to his usual standards. Meanwhile, Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau have found their best form on the LIV Golf circuit. As excitement builds around who will be wearing the green jacket on Sunday after four intense rounds, here’s everything you need to know about The Masters:
When is The Masters?
The Masters will take place at Augusta National, Georgia, from 9 to 12 April.
The Masters 2026 schedule
The first round begins on Thursday, 9 April, with the first tee shot for rounds one and two likely to be hit at 12:40pm BST. The last tee time is expected to be around 6:45pm BST. There will be an honorary starters ceremony starting at 12:30pm BST before the first pairing steps onto the first tee.
During the weekend, rounds three and four on Saturday, 11 April, and Sunday, 12 April, will have a later start. The first groups are due out at around 2:40–2:50pm BST, while the leaders usually head out at around 7:30–7:40pm BST. Tee times will be released on Tuesday, 7 April, two days before the first round.
How can I watch The Masters 2026?
Fans in the UK can catch The Masters on Sky Sports, with coverage starting from 2pm BST on Thursday. Featured Group action and updates around the course will be available on Sky Sports Golf until 6pm BST, when the global broadcast window opens. This time is brought forward at the weekend for rounds three and four, starting at 5pm BST.
Sky Sports+ will provide live coverage of the Featured Holes/Amen Corner from 3:45pm BST on Thursday and Friday, 5pm BST on Saturday, and 4:45pm BST on Sunday.
Viewers can subscribe to Sky or use Now TV with a day or month pass. Independent Sport will also offer a live blog with the latest scores, news, and reactions.
Odds
Here are the current odds for the top contenders:
- Scottie Scheffler – 9/2
- Rory McIlroy – 10/1
- Jon Rahm – 11/1
- Bryson DeChambeau – 11/1
- Xander Schauffele – 14/1
- Ludvig Aberg – 14/1
- Justin Rose – 20/1
- Tommy Fleetwood – 20/1
- Matt Fitzpatrick – 20/1
- Cameron Young – 22/1
The Independent is the world’s most free-thinking news brand, providing global news, commentary, and analysis for the independently-minded. We have grown a huge, global readership of independently minded individuals, who value our trusted voice and commitment to positive change. Our mission, making change happen, has never been as important as it is today.
