The Masters 2026: Rory McIlroy Defends Title as Golf's Major Season Opens
The Masters returns to Augusta National from 9 to 12 April 2026, marking the thrilling start of the men's major golf season. Rory McIlroy will defend his title, having secured a dramatic victory over Justin Rose in a nail-biting play-off the previous year, which completed his career grand slam. This sets a high bar for excitement and drama at the iconic Georgia course.
Key Contenders and Tournament Context
With Tiger Woods withdrawing from the field following a DUI arrest, despite his past champion exemption, focus shifts squarely to the competition. Scottie Scheffler aims to overcome a recent dip in form by his own lofty standards, while Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau have shown strong performances on the LIV Golf circuit, positioning them as serious threats for the green jacket. Other notable contenders include Ludvig Aberg, who has shared insights on enjoying Augusta National and playing tennis with his girlfriend, adding a personal touch to the pre-tournament buzz.
Detailed Schedule and Tee Times
The tournament kicks off with the first round on Thursday, 9 April. The opening tee shot for rounds one and two is scheduled for approximately 12:40 PM BST, with the last tee time around 6:45 PM BST. An honorary starters ceremony will precede the action at 12:30 PM BST. Over the weekend, rounds three and four on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 April feature later starts, with the first groups teeing off between 2:40 PM and 2:50 PM BST, and the leaders typically heading out around 7:30 PM to 7:40 PM BST. Official tee times are expected to be released on Tuesday, 7 April, two days before the tournament begins.
How to Watch The Masters 2026 on TV
For viewers in the UK, Sky Sports will provide comprehensive coverage of The Masters. Coverage starts at 2:00 PM BST on Thursday, with Featured Group action and course updates available on Sky Sports Golf until 6:00 PM BST, when the global broadcast window opens. Weekend coverage for rounds three and four begins earlier at 5:00 PM BST. Additionally, Sky Sports+ will offer live coverage of Featured Holes and Amen Corner from 3:45 PM BST on Thursday and Friday, 5:00 PM BST on Saturday, and 4:45 PM BST on Sunday. Fans can access this through a Sky subscription or a Now TV day or month pass. For those preferring digital updates, Independent Sport will host a live blog with real-time scores, news, and reaction.
Betting Odds and Favourites
The betting odds highlight the competitive field, with Scottie Scheffler leading as the favourite at 9/2. Rory McIlroy follows at 10/1, while Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau are both priced at 11/1. Other top contenders include:
- Xander Schauffele at 14/1
- Ludvig Aberg at 14/1
- Justin Rose at 20/1
- Tommy Fleetwood at 20/1
- Matt Fitzpatrick at 20/1
- Cameron Young at 22/1
As anticipation builds, golf enthusiasts worldwide are eager to see who will don the prestigious green jacket after four captivating rounds at Augusta National.
