Masters Round 1 Tees Off at Augusta National

Expanded TV coverage, intriguing groups, and a field full of Georgia Bulldogs highlight the 90th edition of the iconic tournament.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 8:23pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the Augusta National golf course in a fragmented, multi-angled style, using the official Masters colors of green, white, and gold.The iconic Augusta National course fractured into a cubist masterpiece, capturing the dynamic energy and multiple perspectives of the Masters tournament.Augusta Today

The 90th Masters Tournament kicks off this week at Augusta National Golf Club, with the first round teeing off on Thursday. The field features a mix of established stars, rising talents, and Georgia Bulldogs, promising an exciting and unpredictable start to the 2026 edition of golf's most prestigious major championship.

Why it matters

The Masters is one of the most anticipated events in the sports calendar, drawing global attention and setting the tone for the rest of the golf season. This year's tournament promises to be especially compelling, with a diverse field, expanded media coverage, and the return of many fan-favorite traditions at Augusta National.

The details

The 90th Masters Tournament will feature expanded TV coverage, allowing fans to follow the action more closely than ever before. The field includes a mix of established stars like Scottie Scheffler, rising talents making their Masters debuts, and a strong contingent of Georgia Bulldogs, adding an extra layer of local interest. Intriguing groupings and pairings will also be a highlight, with players like Rory McIlroy and Mason Howell sharing the first-round tee times.

  • The 90th Masters Tournament tees off on Thursday, April 10, 2026.
  • The first round of play begins at Augusta National Golf Club.

The players

Scottie Scheffler

The world's top-ranked golfer and heavy favorite to win his second green jacket.

Rory McIlroy

A four-time major champion seeking to complete the career Grand Slam by winning the Masters.

Mason Howell

A Georgia Bulldog making his Masters debut, paired with Rory McIlroy for the first round.

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What they’re saying

“The Masters is always a special event, but this year's tournament feels even more exciting with the expanded coverage and the strong field of players. I can't wait to see how it all unfolds.”

— Rory McIlroy, Four-time major champion

“As a Georgia Bulldog, playing in the Masters at Augusta National is a dream come true. I'm honored to be part of this field and can't wait to soak in the atmosphere and compete against the best players in the world.”

— Mason Howell, Masters debutant

What’s next

The first round of the 90th Masters Tournament will take place on Thursday, April 10, 2026, with the final round scheduled for Sunday, April 13, 2026.

The takeaway

The 90th Masters Tournament promises to be a thrilling and unpredictable event, with a diverse field, expanded media coverage, and the return of many beloved traditions at Augusta National. Fans can look forward to an exciting start to the 2026 golf season as the world's best players compete for the coveted green jacket.