2026 Masters Tournament Begins at Augusta National with 91-Player Field

The 2026 Masters Tournament, the 90th edition of the event, takes place from April 9 to 12 at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia.

The invitational field consists of 91 players selected through criteria including past champions, major winners, world rankings, and select amateurs. This marks the smallest field among golf's four majors. The tournament uses a stroke play format over four rounds.

The first two rounds occur on Thursday and Friday, followed by a cut to the top performers for the weekend rounds on Saturday and Sunday. m. local time, with players grouped in threes.

National Golf Club measures 7,565 yards with a par of 72.

The course includes the signature Amen Corner stretch on holes 11 through 13, known for its challenges. After the second round, the field cuts to those at or above a specified score, typically the top 50 players and ties plus those within 10 strokes of the leader. The winner receives the Green Jacket, a tradition symbolizing honorary membership at the club.

Other rituals include the Champions Dinner hosted by the previous year's winner and the Par 3 Contest on Wednesday. Honorary starters, such as Jack Nicklaus, initiate proceedings on the first day.

defends his title after completing the career Grand Slam in 2025.

GB News reported McIlroy's recent back issues, raising questions about his fitness. Scottie Scheffler, the world No. 1, enters after winning The American Express in January 2026 and achieving multiple top finishes since.

Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau represent prominent players from LIV Golf, continuing the rivalry with the PGA Tour. The field lacks Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson for the first time in decades, indicating a generational shift. Other notable entrants include Ludvig Aberg, Xander Schauffele, and Tommy Fleetwood.

“Rory McIlroy returns as defending champion after completing the career Grand Slam in 2025—a milestone achievement that elevated him into golf immortality.”

The Masters was founded in 1934 by Bobby Jones and Clifford Roberts at Augusta National. Originally named the Augusta National Invitational, it adopted its current name in 1939. The event has been held annually at the same venue, building traditions like the Green Jacket and quartz-based white bunker sand.

Jack Nicklaus holds the record with six victories, while Tiger Woods achieved a breakthrough win in 1997. Past underdog successes include Hideki Matsuyama in 2021 and Patrick Reed in 2018. The tournament's exclusivity and pristine conditions contribute to its prestige.