Folks, get ready! The 90th Masters is just around the corner, and all of Golf-Germany is eagerly watching Augusta National. Our man, Rory McIlroy, the 2025 champion, has a clear goal in mind: He aims to be only the fourth golfer in history to defend the Green Jacket. A monumental task, previously accomplished only by legends like Jack Nicklaus (1965-66), Nick Faldo (1989-90), and Tiger Woods (2001-02). Now that would be a statement!
Last year, Rory secured the long-awaited career Grand Slam with an emotional playoff victory over Justin Rose. A ten-year major drought was over; he dropped to his knees – pure drama, just the way we love it. Now, on Thursday, April 9, 2026, he could once again make history at Augusta. “I know defending the Masters title is a pretty rare feat, and it’s something I desperately want to do,” said McIlroy. “I’ve won it once, and I feel like that makes it a little easier for me to win again.”
Between the Lines: Form Check and Favorites
But is Rory truly on form? As world number two and a 15-time major winner, the pressure is immense. Three weeks ago, he had to withdraw from the Arnold Palmer Invitational due to a back injury. At The Players Championship, he finished T46 and didn't manage a single under-par round. That’s not the form one expects from a defending champion. Bookmakers currently favor world number one Scottie Scheffler, who already claimed the British Open and PGA Championship in 2025 and is a two-time Masters champion himself. Expert David Bearman is also skeptical, mentioning injury susceptibility and the emotional toll of the Grand Slam.
Who Could Challenge Rory?
Five Americans are also chasing their first Green Jacket: Justin Thomas, Bryson DeChambeau, Brooks Koepka, Xander Schauffele, and Collin Morikawa, though the latter recently withdrew from the Texas Open due to back issues. Matt Fitzpatrick, who recently secured the Valspar victory, is also in the field and brimming with confidence. One thing is clear: The Masters will be intense once again – full of pressure, full of emotion, and with the chance for another history lesson. We're eagerly awaiting the tee-off at Augusta!
