The Masters: When it starts, how to watch golf's first major of 2026

Rory McIlroy aims to become the fourth player to win back-to-back Masters titles as Scottie Scheffler remains the betting favorite.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 3:00am

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A fragmented, geometric painting in vibrant colors depicting a golf tournament, with sharp, overlapping planes and shapes that convey the intensity and excitement of the Masters.A cubist interpretation of the iconic Masters tournament captures the dynamic energy and competitive spirit of golf's first major of the year.Augusta Today

The 90th edition of the Masters golf tournament is set to tee off on Thursday, April 10, 2026 in Augusta, Georgia. Rory McIlroy, who finally won the career Grand Slam last year, is looking to become only the fourth player to win back-to-back Masters titles. Meanwhile, world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler is the betting favorite after winning the tournament twice already. The tournament will be broadcast across various platforms, including Prime Video, ESPN, Paramount+, and CBS.

Why it matters

The Masters is one of golf's most prestigious events, marking the true start of the sport's season. With several top players vying for the coveted green jacket, including a potential historic back-to-back win by McIlroy, the tournament is sure to captivate golf fans around the world.

The details

The 90th Masters tournament will feature a field of 91 players, keeping with the event's tradition of having fewer than 100 competitors. Notable absences include Tiger Woods, who is taking an indefinite leave, and Phil Mickelson, who is dealing with a personal health matter in his family. The course at Augusta National has seen some minor tweaks, including a reduction in the length of the 17th hole. Off the course, a new Player Services Building has been added, providing enhanced facilities for players and their support staff.

  • The Masters starts on Thursday, April 10, 2026.
  • The Par 3 Contest is held on Wednesday, April 9, 2026.
  • The ceremonial tee shots by Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, and Tom Watson are scheduled for 7:25 a.m. on Thursday, April 10, 2026.

The players

Rory McIlroy

A four-time major champion who is looking to become only the fourth player to win back-to-back Masters titles.

Scottie Scheffler

The world's No. 1 player and the betting favorite to win his third Masters title.

Bryson DeChambeau

The two-time U.S. Open champion who has won his last two tournaments on the Saudi-funded LIV Golf circuit.

Chris Gotterup

One of 22 first-time Masters participants, having won four times on the PGA Tour before his debut.

Tiger Woods

The five-time Masters champion will miss the tournament for the second straight year due to personal issues.

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What they’re saying

“'What motivates me? What gets me going? What do I still want to achieve in the game? I think that's the story. And there's still a lot that I want to do. … I felt like the career Grand Slam was my destination, and I got there, and then I realized it wasn't the destination.'”

— Rory McIlroy

“'What are we all going to talk about next year?'”

— Rory McIlroy

“Jason Day questioned why he was behind the wheel of a car.”

— Jason Day

What’s next

The judge in Tiger Woods' case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow him out on bail.

The takeaway

The 90th Masters tournament promises to be an exciting event, with Rory McIlroy aiming for a historic back-to-back victory and Scottie Scheffler looking to cement his status as the world's top golfer. The absence of Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson will be felt, but a new generation of stars, including several first-time participants, will have the opportunity to make their mark at Augusta National.