Folks, hold on tight! It's that time again! The 2026 Masters is just around the corner and promises to once again blow us all away. The 90th edition of this hallowed golf tournament is the first men's major of the year and traditionally takes place from April 9th to 12th at the legendary Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia. This is the only major always played on the same course – truly a golf mecca!
Before the big boys battle for the Green Jacket, next week kicks off with the practice rounds from Monday to Wednesday. The absolute highlight before the serious competition begins? The Par 3 Contest! On Wednesday lunchtime (approx. 6:00 PM CEST), the pros tee off on the par-27 course, which measures a mere 1,090 yards (997 meters). Since 1960, there have already been 115 holes-in-one – it's pure excitement!
The Road to the Green Jacket: Drama and Thrills
And to really get things going: After the first 36 holes, only the top 50 players – including all tied scores – make it to the final rounds. If it gets tight at the end and several players are tied, then it's a sudden-death playoff! That starts on the 18th hole, and if that's not enough, it continues on the 10th hole. Goosebumps are guaranteed there, golfers!
The question of all questions: Who will claim the title? The current rankings agree: Scottie Scheffler is world number 1 and absolutely hot for the win. But Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau, youngster Ludvig Aberg, Xander Schauffele, Rory McIlroy, and Collin Morikawa are also starting strong. And let's not forget Patrick Reed – a former winner who was in the Top 5 last year and already has two DP World Tour victories under his belt in 2026. He knows how to deliver at Augusta!
Favorite Check: Who's Ahead?
In assessing the favorites, the 2026 betting odds, current form, and 'Strokes Gained' at Augusta naturally play a big role. Previous winners averaged +6.0 strokes the year before – this shows: course knowledge is everything! Augusta remains Augusta: No cell phones, no running, but pure golf tradition and drama. Tee times for the first two rounds will be released on Tuesday, April 7th. Injuries or withdrawals? None reported so far. This promises a spectacle!
