Sports Analysts Predict 2026 Masters Winner

Stephen A. Smith and Chris 'Mad Dog' Russo share their picks for the green jacket on First Take

Apr. 9, 2026 at 12:10am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a fragmented, geometric interpretation of a golf tournament scene, with overlapping shapes and planes representing the dynamic action and competition of the event.The 2026 Masters tournament promises a thrilling competition as golf's top stars vie for the prestigious green jacket.Augusta Today

Sports media personalities Stephen A. Smith and Chris 'Mad Dog' Russo appeared on ESPN's First Take to discuss their predictions for the winner of the 2026 Masters Tournament, which is currently underway in Augusta, Georgia. A key point of discussion involved Russo's concerns about the potential impact of celebrity on Rory McIlroy's performance as the defending champion.

Why it matters

The Masters is one of golf's most prestigious major championships, and the analysts' insights provide valuable perspective on the tournament's top contenders and storylines. Their commentary offers fans an engaging preview of the action unfolding at Augusta National.

The details

The 2026 Masters features a strong field of golfers, including world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler seeking his third green jacket and Bryson DeChambeau aiming for his first win at Augusta. Defending champion Rory McIlroy is also in the mix, though Chris Russo expressed concerns that the celebrity associated with winning could impact McIlroy's focus and performance.

  • The 2026 Masters Tournament is currently underway as of April 8, 2026.
  • The First Take segment featuring Smith and Russo's predictions aired on April 8, 2026.

The players

Stephen A. Smith

A prominent sports media personality and co-host of ESPN's First Take program.

Chris 'Mad Dog' Russo

A sports radio host and analyst who appeared alongside Smith on First Take to discuss the 2026 Masters.

Rory McIlroy

The defending champion of the 2026 Masters Tournament, seeking to win consecutive green jackets.

Scottie Scheffler

The world's top-ranked golfer, aiming to claim his third Masters title in 2026.

Bryson DeChambeau

A high-profile golfer looking to win his first Masters championship in 2026.

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What they’re saying

“Rory's celebrity could impact his focus and performance at Augusta this year.”

— Chris 'Mad Dog' Russo, Sports Analyst

What’s next

Fans can continue to follow the 2026 Masters Tournament throughout the weekend, with ESPN providing comprehensive coverage across its various platforms.

The takeaway

The 2026 Masters promises an exciting competition, with a talented field of golfers vying for the prestigious green jacket. The insights from sports media personalities like Stephen A. Smith and Chris Russo offer valuable perspective on the tournament's top contenders and potential storylines.