Masters 2026 First Round Leader Picks

Analyzing the odds and predictions for the first round leader at the 2026 Masters Tournament

Apr. 7, 2026 at 1:33am

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A cubist-style painting featuring fragmented, geometric shapes in shades of green, white, and gold, representing the Augusta National golf course and a golfer's swing motion.The Masters' iconic landscape and a golfer's powerful swing deconstructed into a cubist masterpiece, capturing the tournament's unique challenges.Augusta Today

The Masters is one of the toughest challenges in golf, but the first round leader board has the potential for more value than picking the overall tournament winner. We analyze the key stats and odds for potential first round leaders at Augusta National in 2026.

Why it matters

Predicting the first round leader at the Masters can be a lucrative betting opportunity, as the odds are often longer than picking the eventual tournament champion. Understanding the course conditions, player form, and historical trends can give bettors an edge in this market.

The details

In recent years, a score of 65 has been the magic number to lead after the first round at the Masters. Players like Justin Rose, Bryson DeChambeau, and Viktor Hovland have all held the first round lead in the last five years. Key stats to consider are round one scoring average, putting performance, and overall form. Longshots like Min Woo Lee and Max Greyserman could provide value based on their strong first round numbers at Augusta.

  • The 2026 Masters Tournament will take place from April 10-13, 2026.

The players

Scottie Scheffler

The current world #1 golfer and 2022 Masters champion, Scheffler is among the favorites to lead after the first round at +1325 odds.

Jon Rahm

The 2023 Masters first round leader, Rahm is a top contender at +1900 odds to repeat that feat in 2026.

Bryson DeChambeau

The 2024 first round leader, DeChambeau has the power and precision to get off to a hot start at Augusta.

Min Woo Lee

Ranked 5th in first round scoring average, the 27-year-old Australian is an intriguing longshot at +3800 odds.

Viktor Hovland

The Norwegian has finished in the top-15 in his last three Masters appearances and has been a consistent first round performer.

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What they’re saying

“Anybody can putt well for a day to give themselves a chance to card a low score on Thursday. Anybody can play well tee-to-green in the first round and watch it all unravel the next day.”

— Adam Burke, Author

What’s next

The 2026 Masters Tournament will take place from April 10-13, 2026, with the first round teeing off on Thursday, April 10th.

The takeaway

Predicting the first round leader at the Masters can be a lucrative betting opportunity, as the odds are often longer than picking the eventual tournament champion. Key factors to consider are a player's first round scoring history at Augusta, putting performance, and overall form heading into the event.