Masters Weather Forecast Portends a Wildly Tough Version of Augusta National
Sports Illustrated • • general
Key Points:
- The upcoming Masters Tournament at Augusta National is expected to feature the driest conditions in 15 years, creating a firm and fast course that challenges players to hit precise shots.
- Firm greens and fairways typically separate the best players, as only well-struck shots hold and fairways reward the best drives, according to 2013 champion Adam Scott.
- The course has been dry since the Augusta National Women’s Amateur, with no rain forecasted and temperatures rising into the 80s over the weekend, accompanied by light winds that add complexity.
- Players are adjusting their equipment to adapt to the firm conditions, such as Keegan Bradley opting for a 7-wood instead of a 3-iron to achieve higher ball flight on certain holes.
- The challenging conditions demand strategic thinking and adaptability, with past champions like Sergio Garcia and players like Alex Noren emphasizing the course’s difficulty and the importance of using fairway roll effectively.
