The 90th Masters Tournament at Augusta National is set to begin in just over a week, featuring a stellar field of 93 players competing for golf's most coveted prize. The tournament runs from Thursday, April 9 through Sunday, April 12, with storylines aplenty heading into the first major championship of 2026.
Defending champion Rory McIlroy headlines the field as he attempts to join the exclusive group of multiple green jacket winners. The Northern Irishman's 2025 victory at Augusta National completed his career Grand Slam, and now he seeks to add another chapter to his Masters legacy.
World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler enters as the tournament favorite after a dominant start to the 2026 season. His victory at The American Express in January demonstrated the form that has made him the player to beat heading into Augusta.
Also commanding attention is 2023 Masters champion Jon Rahm, the LIV Golf standout who has been remarkably consistent this season. The Spaniard has competed in five events during 2026, recording a top-five finish in each appearance.
Collin Morikawa arrives at Augusta riding a wave of strong play that includes his seventh PGA Tour title at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am in February. He followed that victory with another top-five finish at the Arnold Palmer Invitational in March, showcasing the form that has made him dangerous at major championships.
Morikawa's recent success at Augusta National adds to his credentials as a contender. His third-place finish in 2024 marked his second top-five result in his last four Masters appearances, proving his ability to compete on the demanding layout.
The early season PGA Tour winners have set themselves up as potential threats at Augusta. Chris Gotterup has been particularly impressive, capturing victories at both the Sony Open in Hawaii and the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale. Justin Rose also enters with confidence after claiming the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines.
Television coverage will be extensive across multiple networks, ensuring golf fans don't miss any of the action. ESPN will handle early afternoon coverage from 3-7:30 p.m. Eastern during the first two rounds, while CBS takes over for weekend coverage from 2-7 p.m.
The Masters.com website and mobile app will provide comprehensive streaming coverage throughout the tournament, with live coverage beginning at 1 p.m. Eastern on Thursday and Friday. Weekend coverage on the digital platforms starts at noon both Saturday and Sunday.
Paramount+ subscribers will have access to coverage during the weekend rounds, with streaming available from noon-2 p.m. and 2-7 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday.
The field includes a mix of major champions, rising stars, and accomplished amateurs who earned their spots through various qualifying criteria. Notable veterans like Phil Mickelson, Fred Couples, and José María Olazábal will make their annual pilgrimages to Augusta National.
Younger talents including Ludvig Aberg, Viktor Hovland, and Max Homa will look to break through for their first major championships. The amateur contingent features several highly regarded collegiate players who have earned their invitations through various championships.
With perfect spring weather typically gracing Augusta in April, conditions should be ideal for low scoring and dramatic finishes. The azaleas will be in full bloom, creating the picturesque backdrop that makes the Masters unlike any other tournament in professional golf.
As the golf world turns its attention to the storied grounds of Augusta National, the stage is set for another memorable Masters Tournament. With defending champion McIlroy seeking history and world No. 1 Scheffler looking to add to his major tally, the 2026 Masters promises to deliver the drama and excellence that has made it golf's most prestigious event.