The Masters returns to Augusta National in Georgia from April 9 to 12, 2026, marking the thrilling start of the men's major golf season. This year's event is set to be a dramatic showcase, with Rory McIlroy defending his title after a cathartic victory in 2025 that secured his grand slam. His nail-biting play-off win over Justin Rose has set a high bar for excitement, promising intense competition on the iconic course.
Key Contenders and Tournament Dynamics
With Tiger Woods withdrawing from the field following his DUI arrest, despite holding a past champion exemption, the focus shifts squarely to the golf itself. Rory McIlroy leads the pack as the defending champion, but he faces stiff competition from top players. Scottie Scheffler has endured a challenging run of form by his lofty standards, while Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau have been showcasing near-peak performance on the LIV Golf circuit. Other notable contenders include Ludvig Aberg, who has expressed his fondness for Augusta National, and a strong field of veterans and rising stars.
The Masters 2026 Schedule and Tee Times
The tournament kicks off with the first round on Thursday, April 9. The initial 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, April 11, and Sunday, April 12, will feature later starts, with the first groups teeing off between 2:40 PM and 2:50 PM BST. The leaders are expected to begin their rounds around 7:30 PM to 7:40 PM BST. Official tee times will be released on Tuesday, April 7, providing fans with precise details two days before the tournament commences.
How to Watch The Masters 2026 on TV
For viewers in the UK, comprehensive coverage of The Masters will be available on Sky Sports. Coverage begins at 2:00 PM BST on Thursday, featuring live updates and Featured Group action until 6:00 PM BST, when the global broadcast window opens. During the weekend, this start time moves forward to 5:00 PM BST for rounds three and four. Additionally, Sky Sports+ will offer live coverage of Featured Holes and Amen Corner, starting at 3:45 PM BST on Thursday and Friday, 5:00 PM BST on Saturday, and 4:45 PM BST on Sunday. Fans can access the coverage through a Sky subscription or via Now TV with a day or month pass. For those preferring digital updates, Independent Sport will host a live blog with real-time scores, news, and reaction throughout the event.
Odds and Betting Favorites
The betting odds highlight a competitive field, with Scottie Scheffler leading as the favorite at 9/2. Rory McIlroy follows closely at 10/1, while Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau are both priced at 11/1. Other top contenders include Xander Schauffele and Ludvig Aberg at 14/1, and Justin Rose, Tommy Fleetwood, and Matt Fitzpatrick at 20/1. Cameron Young rounds out the list at 22/1, making for an unpredictable and exciting tournament as players vie for the prestigious green jacket.
