Golfers Arrive at Augusta National for Masters Practice

Players hit the course ahead of this week's Masters Tournament

Apr. 5, 2026 at 9:09pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Golfers have begun arriving at Augusta National Golf Club to start practicing for the upcoming Masters Tournament. Several players, including reigning champion Rory McIlroy, were spotted on the course on Sunday getting in some early practice rounds ahead of the tournament's official start on Thursday.

Why it matters

The Masters is one of golf's most prestigious major championships, and players' practice sessions in the days leading up to the event can provide valuable insights into their form and preparations for the tournament.

The details

A number of top players were seen practicing at Augusta National on Sunday, including Justin Thomas, Max Greyserman, Rasmus Højgaard, Brian Campbell, Harry Hall, Jake Knapp, Gary Woodland, Ben Griffin, and Davis Riley. Reigning champion Rory McIlroy was also at the club, having participated in the Drive, Chip & Putt national finals earlier in the day.

  • Golfers began arriving at Augusta National on Sunday to start practicing for the Masters Tournament.
  • The Masters practice rounds will officially get underway on Monday morning.
  • The 2026 Masters Tournament is scheduled to begin on Thursday.

The players

Rory McIlroy

The reigning Masters champion, who participated in the Drive, Chip & Putt national finals earlier on Sunday and planned to play a round with his dad.

Justin Thomas

One of the top-ranked golfers in the world, who was spotted practicing at Augusta National on Sunday.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I planned to play a round with my dad today.”

— Rory McIlroy

What’s next

The official practice rounds for the 2026 Masters Tournament will begin on Monday morning, with the tournament itself set to start on Thursday.

The takeaway

The arrival of top golfers at Augusta National to begin their preparations for the Masters Tournament is an exciting sign that the prestigious event is just around the corner. Players' practice sessions in the days leading up to the tournament will be closely watched for insights into their form and strategies.