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Masters Week Opens at Augusta With 91 Players and McIlroy Fit to Defend

A favorable forecast points to firmer greens that could reward precise iron play.

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AUGUSTA, GEORGIA - APRIL 13: (R-L) Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland shakes hands with Bryson DeChambeau of the United States on the 18th hole during the final round of the 2025 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 13, 2025 in Augusta, Georgia. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
Golf - The Masters - Augusta National Golf Club, Augusta, Georgia, U.S. - April 7, 2026 Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy reacts after his tee shot on the 11th hole during a practice round REUTERS/Brian Snyder
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Overview

  • Augusta National hosts the 90th Masters from Thursday to Sunday with a compact 91‑player field and opening‑round tee times now set.
  • Defending champion Rory McIlroy received a “full go” assessment on his back in an ESPN report, easing worries after spasms forced a March withdrawal.
  • World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler enters as the betting favorite as past major winners from the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, including Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau, headline the chase.
  • AccuWeather’s early outlook shows low rain chances all week and 0 percent on Sunday, conditions that typically allow Augusta’s greens to play faster and demand sharper approach shots.
  • Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson will not compete, removing two of the event’s most familiar figures and shifting the spotlight to today’s contenders.