Overview
- McIlroy is back on site at Augusta in the green jacket, saying he will enjoy the early-week traditions before switching to a full focus on his title defense.
- His run‑up has been lighter after a recent back issue, and skipping the Texas Open looked wise as weather disruptions there cut into practice time for some rivals.
- Analysts say Scheffler’s stats have dipped in recent weeks and note a shorter backswing in a recent swing change, yet betting markets still list him as the favorite.
- Tiger Woods will not play after his late‑March arrest and decision to step away to focus on his health, with Jack Nicklaus saying the 15‑time major winner “needs help.”
- Viewers get expanded coverage this week across the ESPN app, Prime Video, CBS and Paramount+, and sportsbooks price Scheffler at +500 ahead of Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau at +1000 and McIlroy at +1200.