The golfing world turns its eyes to Augusta National this week as the 2026 Masters Tournament tees off on Thursday. With a massive $21 million purse on the line, the world's best golfers descend on one of golf's most iconic venues for the first major of the year.

The Big Story

After finally slaying his past demons by winning last year's Masters and completing the career Grand Slam, Rory McIlroy returns to Augusta looking to become only the fourth player in history to win back-to-back Masters titles. The Northern Irishman has been in stellar form, and his confidence going into this week must be at an all-time high.

However, he's not the betting favorite. That honour falls to the consistent Scottie Scheffler, who has once again established himself as the player to beat on the PGA Tour.

📊 Masters 2026 Betting Odds (via FanDuel):
PlayerOdds
Scottie Scheffler+500
Bryson DeChambeau+1000
Jon Rahm+1000
Rory McIlroy+1300
Xander Schauffele+1500
Ludvig Åberg+1800

Expert Picks and Predictions

Golf betting expert Brady Kannon has been calling major winners since 2013, and he's issued his 2026 Masters predictions. One of his key insights: fading Tyrrell Hatton, whose odds have shortened from 55-1 to 80-1 despite inconsistent form this season.

"The Masters, or any major, really, is not necessarily receptive to volatility in one's current game," Kannon noted. "We are dealing with 50-some players on LIV and Hatton ranks 44th in scrambling, 33rd for greens in regulation and 27th in putting average."

Players to Watch

  • Scottie Scheffler (+500) - The defending PGA Tour Player of the Year remains the consensus favorite. His ball-striking around Augusta is exceptional.
  • Rory McIlroy (+1300) - Looking to join an elite group with back-to-back Green Jackets. His short game has never been better.
  • Bryson DeChambeau (+1000) - The 2024 U.S. Open champion has the distance to overpower Augusta, but can he find the precision needed?
  • Ludvig Åberg (+1800) - The young Swedish star is a perfect course fit. Don't be surprised if he's in contention on Sunday.

Notable Absences

Two legendary Masters champions will not be competing this year. Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson are both sitting out due to personal reasons, marking a changing of the guard at Augusta National.

Course Overview

Augusta National Golf Club measures 7,555 yards and plays as a par-72. It's famous for its immaculate conditions, challenging greens, and the iconic Amen Corner (holes 11-13). The course rewards precision over power, making the short game as important as ever.

💡 MyShortGame Tip: Augusta rewards players who are dialed in from 100 yards and in. If you're looking to improve your own game, focus on your chipping and putting over driving distance.

Prediction

While Scheffler is the favorite, McIlroy's recent form and newfound confidence at Augusta make him a compelling pick. Watch for Ludvig Åberg as a potential dark horse — his length off the tee combined with improving wedge play makes him a dangerous competitor.

The Masters begins Thursday. Make sure to tune in for what promises to be another thrilling major championship.