Clemson's Bridgeman Set for Masters Debut

Former Tiger star ranked No. 1 on PGA Tour FedEx Cup standings

Apr. 7, 2026 at 8:20pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a golfer's swing and the Masters tournament in an abstract, deconstructed style.Bridgeman's Masters debut showcases Clemson's rising prominence in professional golf.Augusta Today

Former Clemson All-American Jacob Bridgeman, the number-one ranked player on the PGA Tour's FedEx Cup rankings, will begin play in his first Masters tournament on Thursday, April 9. Bridgeman, who turned professional in 2022 after a standout college career, is off to a sensational start to the 2026 season with eight top-20 finishes, including his first career victory.

Why it matters

Bridgeman's Masters debut marks the 14th time a former or current Clemson golfer has played in the prestigious tournament, continuing the school's rich history in the sport. A strong performance could further boost Bridgeman's rising profile on the PGA Tour.

The details

Bridgeman will tee off at 12:27 p.m. on Thursday and 9:02 a.m. on Friday, paired with former Masters champion Sergio Garcia and Aaron Rai. The top finish for a former Clemson golfer at the Masters is eighth by Jonathan Byrd in 2003, while the record low score by a former Tiger is six-under-par 282 by Dillard Pruitt in 1992.

  • Bridgeman will begin play on Thursday, April 9.
  • He will tee off at 12:27 p.m. on Thursday and 9:02 a.m. on Friday.

The players

Jacob Bridgeman

A former Clemson All-American and the current number-one ranked player on the PGA Tour's FedEx Cup standings.

Sergio Garcia

A former Masters champion who will be paired with Bridgeman.

Aaron Rai

An English golfer who will be paired with Bridgeman.

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The takeaway

Bridgeman's Masters debut is a significant milestone in his young professional career, as he looks to continue the strong start to his 2026 season and build on Clemson's rich history of success at the prestigious tournament.