Masters week is here, running from April 11th to April 14th at Augusta National Golf Course. It's the ultimate thrill for fans, whether you're a casual viewer, diehard fan, or bettor. Get ready for unforgettable moments and captivating competition as golfing greatness unfolds.

 

 

Rory Mcilroy

 

 

In the realm of favorites stands Rory Mcilroy, eyeing a career grand slam with hopes of claiming his first Masters title. Despite finishing third at the Valero Texas Open last weekend, McIlroy trails the leaders by nine shots. However, his strong start to the year, including a tied second-place finish in the Dubai Invitational and a win at the Dubai Desert Classic, showcases his potential. 

 

Who is the defending Masters champion?

 

Jon Rahm makes a comeback to Augusta National a year after his remarkable victory at the Masters Tournament. Rahm secured his second Major title by overcoming a challenging start and trailing the third-round leader, Brooks Koepka. Despite initial difficulties, Rahm's resilience shone through as he wiped out the deficit and took a two-stroke lead into the back nine. Crucial birdies at the 13th and 14th holes solidified his lead, ultimately clinching victory with a closing score of 12 under par. Rahm's triumph marked his fifth top-ten finish in seven visits to Augusta. Returning for his eighth Masters appearance, Rahm now seeks to join an elite group as one of only four players to successfully defend the Green Jacket.

 

 

Jon Rahm

 

 

What is the Masters prize money?

 

This year’s total purse is expected to be US $18 million, the same as it was last year. The winner takes US $3,240,000 with incrementally less prize money for each of the top 50 finishers. 

The winner also gets a replica of the official trophy (which never leaves the club). The champion golfer also receives a gold medal and, most coveted of all, a green jacket. 

There are also trophies for finishing second, being the leading amateur golfer, recording the lowest score of the day, hitting a hole in one, hitting an eagle and hitting a double eagle.

 

Have there been any course changes at Augusta National?

 

Despite its tradition, Augusta National isn't afraid to update its layout for modern players' capabilities. Last year, they notably altered the par five 13th hole by extending the tee back by 35 yards and elevating it by eight yards. This aimed to restore the hole's original risk-and-reward nature after a decline in scoring average over the years. This year's significant change is the addition of a new tee box at the par five second hole, Pink Dogwood. Moving back 10 yards and to the left, this adjustment makes the second hole the longest on the course at 585 yards, adapting to the evolving game.

 

Is Tiger Woods playing in the Masters?

 

Tiger Woods will make his 26th appearance at Augusta National this year. The five-time winner of the green jacket has had limited play since his car accident in 2021 and withdrew from the last two full-field tournaments he entered, including last year's Masters. However, he is set to compete again this week. Woods holds the record for the longest streak of consecutive cuts made at Augusta National, having made the cut in 23 consecutive Masters tournaments, a feat he shares with Gary Player and Fred Couples.

 

 

Tiger Woods

 

 

Are LIV golfers playing in the Masters?

 

There will be 13 LIV golfers in the Masters field. Seven of them (García, Mickelson, Johnson, Watson, Reed, Schwartzel and Rahm) are former Masters champions and receive lifetime invitations. Three more (DeChambeau, Smith and Koepka) got in because of recent wins at major championships. Two others (Hatton and Meronk) were ranked in the top 50 at the end of last year. Augusta National extended Niemann a special invitation to play in this year’s Masters.

 

 

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