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2026 Golf Major Preview - 90th Masters Tournament:
Who has the game to master Augusta's iconic greens?

April 9, 2026 by Marc Jerbs

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The 2026 Masters Tournament is scheduled to take place from April 9-12 at Augusta National Golf Club. Headlining this year's edition are compelling narratives, including Rory McIlroy defending his title and Scottie Scheffler pursuing a third Green Jacket. With several top contenders entering the week in mixed form or returning from injury, the tournament shapes up as one of the most unpredictable Masters in recent years.

Tournament Overview

The 2026 edition marks the 90th playing of the Masters, featuring 91 invited players, including 17 past champions. The course remains a par 72 layout stretching 7,565 yards, with a slight modification to the 17th hole, which has been lengthened by 10 yards. As always, familiarity with Augusta's unique layout - combined with current form and short-game precision - will be key factors in determining success.

90th Masters Sports Bet Odds

Scottie Scheffler is the favorite to win the 90th Masters Tournament. Here are our latest odds:

• Scottie Scheffler is favored to win his 3rd Green Jacket with money line of +600.
• John Rahm is Scheffler's main opponent with money line of +1000.
• Rory McIlroy is doubtful for a back-to-back win with a money line of +1400.

Leading Contenders

Scottie Scheffler
Scheffler enters the week as one of the strongest favorites, having already secured Masters victories in 2022 and 2024. His major résumé continued to grow with wins at the PGA Championship and The Open Championship in 2025. With 20 PGA Tour titles to his name and consistent performances at Augusta—including never finishing outside the top 20—he remains a formidable presence.

Rory McIlroy
McIlroy returns as defending champion after completing the career Grand Slam with his 2025 Masters triumph. The five-time major winner has recorded 29 PGA Tour victories and boasts an impressive Augusta record, highlighted by multiple top 10 finishes and a career-best runner-up finish in 2022. His experience and scoring ability make him a central figure once again.

Jon Rahm
The 2023 Masters champion, Rahm continues to be one of the most consistent performers in major championships. A former U.S. Open winner, he has built a strong track record at Augusta and remains a serious contender thanks to his all-around game.

Bryson DeChambeau
DeChambeau brings power and recent momentum into the tournament, having secured multiple wins on the LIV Golf circuit. A two-time U.S. Open champion, he continues his pursuit of a first Masters title after a solid debut performance as low amateur in 2016.

Xander Schauffele
Schauffele's consistency in major tournaments makes him a strong contender. With victories in both the PGA Championship and The Open, along with an Olympic gold medal, he has proven his ability on the biggest stages. His past near misses at Augusta suggest he could be in the mix once again.

Final Thoughts

The 2026 Masters sets the stage for a wide-open battle between established champions and elite challengers. While proven winners like Scheffler and McIlroy carry significant expectations, Augusta National's demanding layout ensures that precision iron play and a sharp short game will ultimately separate the contenders. With so many capable players in the field, the race for the Green Jacket promises to deliver another thrilling chapter in Masters history.

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