Augusta Readies for the First Major

The most magical week in golf is finally here. Augusta National is primed and ready for the Masters, beginning Thursday with its iconic traditions and the world’s best players competing for the coveted green jacket.

This year’s field features 95 players – the largest in a decade – who will navigate the famed Georgia pines and blooming azaleas in search of major glory. Notably absent is five-time champion Tiger Woods, who underwent surgery in March to repair a torn Achilles tendon, ending his record streak of 24 consecutive made cuts at Augusta.

Weather Looking Perfect After Monday’s Washout

Monday’s practice rounds were largely washed out by persistent rain and the threat of afternoon thunderstorms. The good news? The forecast for tournament days calls for ideal golf conditions: plenty of sunshine and temperatures in the 70s – perfect Augusta weather.

Players to Watch

Defending champion Scottie Scheffler enters the week with a delayed start to his season after a December injury involving a wine glass. The world No. 1 appears to be finding his form at just the right time, having fired a final-round 63 at the Houston Open to finish just one shot behind Min Woo Lee.

Rory McIlroy arrives with tremendous momentum after wins at Pebble Beach and The Players Championship. The 35-year-old Northern Irishman seems more determined than ever to complete the career Grand Slam, especially after last summer’s Sunday battle with Bryson DeChambeau at Pinehurst.

Other contenders include two-time major winner last year Xander Schauffele (recovering from a rib injury), five-time major champion Brooks Koepka (who’s twice finished second at Augusta), and Collin Morikawa, who tied for third last year.

LIV Golf Presence

The ongoing schism in professional golf means just 12 players from the LIV Golf league will tee it up at Augusta. This includes 2023 champion Jon Rahm and U.S. Open winner Bryson DeChambeau, whose popular YouTube channel has helped him transcend the game.

Hurricane Helene’s Impact

Augusta National wasn’t spared from the destructive Category 4 Hurricane Helene that swept through Georgia last September. The club lost numerous trees (though they haven’t disclosed the exact number) and needed to repair four greens, including the famous par-3 16th. However, only the most observant fans will notice areas where the pines have thinned.

How to Watch

Thursday’s coverage begins with the beloved tradition of honorary starters Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, and Tom Watson teeing off at around 7:30 a.m. EDT.

The Masters’ own website will stream coverage starting at 7:30 a.m. throughout each day, featuring highlighted holes and featured groups. ESPN broadcasts the first two rounds beginning at 3 p.m. on Thursday and Friday. CBS takes over for the weekend with coverage on Paramount+ starting at noon and on the network at 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Betting Favorites

For those interested in the odds, Scheffler enters as the 9-2 favorite despite not winning yet this season. McIlroy sits as the second choice at 13-2, followed by Collin Morikawa at 14-1, with Rahm and DeChambeau both at 16-1.

The first tee shots are just days away. Who will slip on the green jacket Sunday evening? One thing’s for certain – Augusta National always delivers drama and memories that last a lifetime.