What you need to know for Masters 2026 at Augusta National
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- The last four Masters tournaments featured a clear top player entering with strong momentum, but this year’s field is more open, with Scottie Scheffler as the world number one but lacking invincibility.
- Rory McIlroy, last year’s champion, enters this Masters without the elite form he had previously, and defending champions historically struggle to finish in the top 10 the following year.
- Scottie Scheffler, despite a weaker statistical profile this season, remains a formidable contender with an exceptional major record, aiming to become the fastest player to win three green jackets.
- LIV Golf stars Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm enter with momentum, though Rahm’s recent Augusta performance has been below his previous standards since joining LIV.
- Augusta National demands precision on approach shots and driving accuracy, with recent winners excelling in strokes gained approach; several players, including Cameron Young and Justin Rose, bring compelling storylines into the tournament.
