Golf7 Apr 20263 min read

2026 Masters Preview: Dates, Players, and How to Follow the Action

The Masters 2026 is set for April 9-12 at Augusta National. Defending champ Rory McIlroy headlines a strong field including Scottie Scheffler and Bryson DeChambeau.

2026 Masters Preview: Dates, Players, and How to Follow the Action
Image via bbc.com

Key Takeaways

  • 1.Jon Rahm, a strong presence in major tournaments and the 2023 winner at The Masters, is expected to perform well, especially as he leads the LIV standings this year.
  • 2.“There's a lot riding on this golf hole,” McIlroy said, referencing his commitment to competing at a high level.
  • 3.Renowned for his powerful game, he expressed his awareness of the course's demands: “Unfortunately, with it being so difficult out here...

The 90th edition of The Masters will unfold between April 9 and April 12, 2026, at the prestigious Augusta National Golf Club. Rory McIlroy, the reigning champion, is expected to lead a competitive field of 91 players, including Scottie Scheffler, a two-time titleholder.

Fans can keep up with every moment of the event via BBC Sport, providing live commentary on BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra throughout the tournament, along with in-depth text commentary and highlights available on the BBC Sport website and app.

Schedule for The Masters 2026

- **Round one:** Thursday, April 9 - first tee from 12:40 BST - **Round two:** Friday, April 10 - first tee from 12:40 BST - **Round three:** Saturday, April 11 - tee times to be confirmed - **Round four:** Sunday, April 12 - tee times to be confirmed

Masters 2026: Key Insights and Viewing Guide Ahead of the Tournament
Masters 2026: Key Insights and Viewing Guide Ahead of the Tournament

Live text commentary will start at 12:30 BST for the first two rounds and at 17:00 BST for rounds three and four, with radio coverage available on BBC Sounds at 20:00 BST throughout the tournament.

Favorites Heading Into Augusta

Scottie Scheffler is viewed as a top contender this year. He started 2026 strong with three top-five finishes but faced setbacks in his last two outings, finishing outside the top 20. Despite this, he is renowned for his consistency at Augusta, having never finished lower than 20th in his previous appearances.

Rory McIlroy, aiming for back-to-back Masters victories, faces challenges this time, including concerns over a back injury that affected his performance. Still, he remains one of the top competitors. “There's a lot riding on this golf hole,” McIlroy said, referencing his commitment to competing at a high level.

Masters Champions Mickelson and Singh Had Heated Locker Room Clash
Masters Champions Mickelson and Singh Had Heated Locker Room Clash

Bryson DeChambeau, also in contention, seeks his first Green Jacket. Renowned for his powerful game, he expressed his awareness of the course's demands: “Unfortunately, with it being so difficult out here... you’ve got to be on top of your game no matter what.” His recent victories on the LIV circuit further bolster his chances.

Jon Rahm, a strong presence in major tournaments and the 2023 winner at The Masters, is expected to perform well, especially as he leads the LIV standings this year.

From England, Matt Fitzpatrick, the 2022 US Open champion, brings momentum after a notable second-place finish at the Players Championship. He isn’t alone; fellow Ryder Cup teammates also vie for the title.

Jon Rahm Confident of 2027 Ryder Cup Return Despite DP World Tour Dispute
Jon Rahm Confident of 2027 Ryder Cup Return Despite DP World Tour Dispute

Notables Missing from the Field

Unfortunately, the tournament will be without the iconic presence of Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson this year. Woods, a five-time Masters champion, is taking time off due to injuries sustained in a car accident, while Mickelson announced his withdrawal citing personal health matters. This marks the first time since 1994 that neither of these legends will compete at The Masters.

Weather Conditions at Augusta

The forecast for Augusta indicates a mostly sunny week with temperatures reaching around 21°C. However, there may be light rain during Sunday’s final round, which could potentially impact play.

Fans gearing up for The Masters can anticipate a thrilling event with strong competition and intricate challenges posed by one of golf's most revered courses. Coverage from BBC Sport will ensure every moment is captured, bringing the experience directly to viewers.