Augusta National prepares for historic tournament without two iconic figures. Focus shifts to hungry contenders chasing their first green jacket.
The 2026 Masters will mark a watershed moment for professional golf. For the first time since 1994, neither Tiger Woods nor Phil Mickelson will compete at Augusta National. Woods remains sidelined following his DUI arrest and an indefinite leave from competition, while Mickelson has withdrawn citing a family health matter.
The absence of these two titans—who have defined the tournament landscape for over two decades—creates an unusual vacuum at the sport’s most tradition-steeped event. Yet for many contenders, this Masters presents a genuine opportunity: a chance to finally claim the green jacket that has eluded them.
The Green Jacket Contenders
Rory McIlroy arrives at Augusta as defending champion, finally free from the burden that has haunted him throughout his career. The Northern Irishman‘s victory last year—ending his Grand Slam drought—shifts the narrative entirely. McIlroy now plays with confidence rather than desperation, a subtle but significant advantage over those still pursuing their first major.
The pressure falls squarely on the winless contingent. Xander Schauffele, a runner-up in 2019, remains among the most credible challengers. The talented Californian has proven his ability to contend at Augusta’s most demanding moments but has yet to deliver when it matters most.
Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka represent another tier of serious contenders. Both possess the driving distance and iron play to navigate Augusta’s challenges, yet both have fallen short in past attempts. Justin Rose, who lost in a playoff to McIlroy just weeks ago in the 2025 contest, knows precisely what victory looks like here—he simply needs to execute.
The Favorites and Rising Stars
According to current betting odds, Scottie Scheffler remains the betting favorite at +405 odds as he pursues his third green jacket. The world’s top-ranked player has already proven capable of winning multiple majors at Augusta, positioning him as the overwhelming favorite once again.
Jon Rahm sits at +850, while McIlroy is priced at +1000 to repeat. Both represent elite competition with serious championship pedigree.
Perhaps the most intriguing storyline involves Ludvig Aberg, the Swedish rising star listed at +2000 odds. After finishing solo second in his Masters debut in 2024 and recording another top-10 finish in 2025, Aberg has announced himself as a legitimate major championship contender. His trajectory suggests he may not remain winless at Augusta for long.
Matt Fitzpatrick enters Masters week in peak form following his victory at the Valspar Championship, giving him genuine momentum heading into golf’s most prestigious event.
Masters week begins April 9, with the tournament representing the first major championship of 2026 and the opening act of the season’s most compelling drama.
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