Rory McIlroy returns to Augusta National as defending champion after last year's play-off victory over Justin Rose, but history suggests retaining the Green Jacket is a formidable task. Only Jack Nicklaus, Nick Faldo and Tiger Woods have successfully defended the Masters, and McIlroy faces a strong field of challengers.
Bryson DeChambeau, who finished tied sixth and fifth in his last two Masters appearances, has won his last two LIV Golf events. The two-time major champion's power off the tee could prove decisive, though he faltered in the final round alongside McIlroy last year.
Justin Rose, a three-time runner-up at Augusta, pushed McIlroy all the way in 2025. The 45-year-old said: 'I'm very aware that I've had tough, tough losses here. But I also am aware that I enjoy this place. I hope it only boosts my belief that I can go ahead and do it.'
Robert MacIntyre arrives after a fourth-place finish at the Players Championship and a runner-up at last year's US Open. Left-handers have historically thrived at Augusta, with Paul McGinley noting: 'Getting it around the corner on holes like 10 and 13 is a lot easier to do with a cut as a left-hander.'
World No.1 Scottie Scheffler, a two-time Masters winner, has a superb record at Augusta and will look to bounce back after recent top-20 finishes. Ludvig Aberg, who finished second and seventh in his two Masters starts, has the game to contend after a near miss at the Players.
