
The Masters Tournament 2026 is set to be one of the most exciting events in the golf calendar, bringing together the world’s best players to compete for the iconic green jacket at Augusta National Golf Club. Whether you’re looking for the latest details on the field, full schedule, tee times, prize money, or how to watch the action live, this guide covers everything you need to know in one place.
Keep reading to get a complete breakdown of what to expect from this year’s Masters Tournament and stay fully prepared for one of golf’s biggest stages.
What is the Masters Tournament 2026?
The Masters Tournament 2026 is one of the biggest golf championships in the world. It is the first of the four major championships on the men’s professional golf calendar and brings together many of the best golfers from around the world to compete for one of the most famous titles in the sport.
The 2026 edition will be played from April 9–12 at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia, in the United States. This tournament will mark the 90th playing of the Masters.
Players compete over 72 holes of stroke play, and the golfer with the lowest total score at the end of four rounds is crowned the champion. Invitations to compete are based on a mix of past performances, world rankings, and special qualifications set by Augusta National.
Key Facts About the Championship
- First major championship of the men’s golf season.
- Played annually in early April.
- Held at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia, U.S.
- Tournament format is 72 holes of stroke play.
- Field is by invitation only, with one of the smallest competitor lists among major events.
- Includes practice rounds and the Par‑3 Contest before the main championship week.
- Winners receive a green jacket, lifetime invitations, and invitations to other majors.
History of the Masters Tournament
The Masters Tournament started in 1934 as an invitational golf event at Augusta National Golf Club, which was co-founded by golf legend Bobby Jones and businessman Clifford Roberts.
From the beginning, the tournament quickly became one of the most respected events in golf. Its tradition of being played at the same course, Augusta National, sets it apart from many other major championships, which rotate courses.
Over the decades, the Masters has crowned many of golf’s greatest players, from Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer to Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy. The list of champions includes multiple record‑setting wins and memorable finishes.
Notable Milestones Include:
- 1934: First Masters Tournament is held.
- 1949: The tradition of the green jacket for the champion begins.
- 1966: Jack Nicklaus wins his third Masters title and begins his run as one of the all‑time greats.
- 1997: Tiger Woods wins his first Masters and sets new scoring records.
- 2025: Rory McIlroy wins and completes the modern career Grand Slam at the Masters.
- 2026: The tournament marks its 90th edition.
What Makes This Championship Unique?
The Masters Tournament stands out because it combines history, tradition, and prestige in a way few sports events do. It is the only one of the four men’s major golf championships that is always played at the same course, Augusta National, which is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and challenging courses in golf.
Another special feature is the green jacket, given to each champion and worn only during Masters week. This award has become one of golf’s most iconic symbols.
The tournament also has a strong set of traditions, including the Champions Dinner, the Par‑3 Contest, and the crowd of passionate fans that line the fairways each year.
With its rich history, exclusive field, and deep connection to golf culture, the Masters remains one of the most anticipated and celebrated events in the sport.
When and Where Does 2026 Masters Tournament Held?
The 2026 Masters Tournament is scheduled to take place from April 9 to April 12, 2026, continuing its position as the first major championship of the men’s professional golf season. Each year, the tournament attracts one of the strongest fields in the sport, featuring top-ranked players, past major champions, and special invitees.
The championship will be held at the famous Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia. As the permanent home of the Masters Tournament since its inception in 1934, Augusta National is widely recognized as one of the most prestigious and challenging venues in golf.
With thousands of spectators lining the fairways and millions watching worldwide, the 2026 Masters is expected to deliver four days of high-level competition featuring many of the world’s best golfers.
Course Details: Augusta National Golf Club
Augusta National serves as the iconic host venue for the Masters Tournament. The course is celebrated for its immaculate presentation, strategic design, and the high level of difficulty that challenges even the best players in the world.
Designed by Bobby Jones and Alister MacKenzie, Augusta National opened in 1933 and has since become synonymous with golf tradition and excellence. The course features a par-72 layout with rolling fairways, fast greens, water hazards, and strategically placed bunkers that require precise shot-making and smart course management.
One of the most famous features of the course is Amen Corner, comprising the 11th, 12th, and 13th holes. This stretch of holes is often decisive in determining the tournament winner and is renowned for its beauty and difficulty.
Players competing at Augusta National must demonstrate accuracy off the tee, precision with iron shots, and strong putting skills to contend for the coveted green jacket.
Course Layout and Conditions
Augusta National provides one of the most challenging tests in professional golf. Key course characteristics include:
- Par 72 layout stretching approximately 7,475 yards.
- Narrow fairways that reward accurate driving.
- Water hazards coming into play on several holes, especially around Amen Corner.
- Strategically placed bunkers that protect landing zones and greens.
- Fast, undulating greens that demand precise approach shots and putting.
- Amen Corner (holes 11–13), one of golf’s most famous and challenging sequences.
- Changing wind conditions, particularly in the afternoons, affecting club selection.
- Flower-lined fairways and meticulously maintained landscapes, making it visually iconic.
Because of these factors, Augusta National rewards players who combine power, accuracy, patience, and strategy. Consistency and composure are often the keys to lifting the green jacket at the Masters Tournament.
Masters Tournament Tournament Format
The Masters Tournament 2026 follows the traditional stroke play format used in all major championships. Players compete over four rounds of golf, aiming to finish the tournament with the lowest total score after 72 holes.
Every shot counts toward a player’s overall score, so consistency, accuracy, and strategic course management are essential throughout the week. With one of the strongest fields in golf, the Masters often produces tight leaderboards and dramatic finishes. Competitors play not only for the green jacket but also for a share of the prize money and significant world ranking points.
Tournament Format Breakdown
- Format: Stroke play
- Total Rounds: 4 rounds
- Total Holes: 72 holes
- Field Size: Approximately 90–100 invited players
- Cut Rule: Top 50 players and ties advance after two rounds
- Winner: Player with the lowest cumulative score after four rounds
- Playoff Format: Sudden-death playoff if two or more players are tied after 72 holes
- World Ranking Points: Awarded based on finishing position
- Official Major Championship: Counts toward career majors and PGA Tour stats
Players who do not make the cut after the second round do not advance to the weekend rounds, keeping the competition focused on the top-performing golfers.
Round Format Breakdown
- Round 1 (Thursday): The opening round kicks off the championship. Players aim for a strong start to position themselves on the leaderboard.
- Round 2 (Friday): The second round determines which players make the cut. Those within the top 50 and ties advance to the weekend.
- Round 3 (Saturday): Often called “moving day,” the third round is crucial for players looking to climb the leaderboard and challenge for the title.
- Round 4 (Sunday): The final round decides the champion of the Masters. Leading players compete for the green jacket, the trophy, and prize money as the tournament concludes.
Masters Tournament Rules
The Masters Tournament 2026 follows the official regulations established by Augusta National Golf Club along with the Rules of Golf as set by the USGA and R&A. These rules ensure fair competition, accurate scoring, and consistent playing conditions throughout the championship.
Tournament officials, referees, and scoring teams oversee all aspects of play at Augusta National. They enforce the rules, monitor scoring, and make decisions on penalties or disputes during the tournament.
General Rules for This Championship Include the Following:
- The tournament is played over 72 holes across four rounds.
- The format is stroke play, meaning every shot counts toward the total score.
- All players must follow the official Rules of Golf and Masters Tournament regulations.
- A 36-hole cut is applied after the second round.
- Only the top 50 players and ties advance to the weekend rounds.
- Players must use equipment that meets professional golf standards.
- Augusta National officials oversee rulings, penalties, and score verification.
- Pace-of-play rules apply to maintain steady competition.
- Electronic scoring systems are used alongside official scorecard checks.
- Tournament officials have final authority on all competition decisions.
For Ties and Playoffs
- If two or more players are tied for first place after 72 holes, a sudden-death playoff determines the champion.
- Players compete hole by hole until a winner is decided.
- The player with the lowest score on a playoff hole wins the green jacket.
- Playoff holes typically start from the 18th hole, followed by others if necessary.
- Ties for other finishing positions remain shared placements.
- Prize money and world ranking points are distributed according to official rules.
For Weather Delays
- Weather can sometimes interrupt play at Augusta National, and officials follow established procedures to manage delays safely.
- Play may be suspended due to lightning, heavy rain, strong winds, or unsafe course conditions.
- Rounds may resume later the same day once conditions improve.
- Extended delays can push play into the following day if necessary.
- Tee times and player groupings may be adjusted to keep the tournament on schedule.
- Officials aim to complete all 72 holes whenever possible.
- All suspension and scheduling decisions are made by Masters Tournament officials.
Masters Tournament Schedule of Events and Tee Times
The Masters Tournament 2026 features a full week of activities, including practice rounds, special events, and the four official competition rounds at Augusta National Golf Club.
Fans attending the tournament can enjoy practice sessions early in the week, followed by the famous Par-3 Contest, and then four days of championship golf from Thursday to Sunday.
(All times listed below are local tournament times – EDT and may change depending on conditions.)
Full Schedule of Events
Monday, April 6 (Practice Day)
| Event | Time |
| Patron Parking | 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Ticketing Gates | 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Course Gates | 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Golf Shops | 7:00 AM – 6:30 PM |
| Patron Photos | 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
Tuesday, April 7 (Practice Day)
| Event | Time |
| Patron Parking | 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Ticketing Gates | 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Course Gates | 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Golf Shops | 7:00 AM – 6:30 PM |
| Patron Photos | 7:30 AM – 1:00 PM |
Wednesday, April 8 (Practice Day + Par-3 Contest)
| Event | Time |
| Patron Parking | 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Ticketing Gates | 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Course Gates | 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Golf Shops | 7:00 AM – 6:30 PM |
| Patron Photos | 7:30 AM – 10:00 AM |
| Par-3 Contest | Begins at 12:00 PM |
Thursday, April 9 (Round 1)
| Event | Time |
| Patron Parking | 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Ticketing Gates | 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Course Gates | 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Golf Shops | 7:00 AM – 30 mins after play |
| Honorary Starters Ceremony | Approx. 7:30 AM |
| Patron Photos | 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
Friday, April 10 (Round 2)
| Event | Time |
| Patron Parking | 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Ticketing Gates | 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Course Gates | 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Golf Shops | 7:00 AM – 30 mins after play |
| Patron Photos | 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tee Times Begin | Approx. 7:45 AM |
Saturday, April 11 (Round 3)
| Event | Time |
| Patron Parking | 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Ticketing Gates | 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Course Gates | 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Golf Shops | 7:00 AM – 30 mins after play |
| Patron Photos | 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tee Times Begin | Approx. 10:30 AM |
Sunday, April 12 (Final Round)
| Event | Time |
| Patron Parking | 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Ticketing Gates | 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Course Gates | 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Golf Shops | 7:00 AM – 30 mins after play |
| Patron Photos | 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tee Times Begin | Approx. 10:30 AM |
| Green Jacket Ceremony | After completion of play |
For full official updates, you can explore the 2026 Masters Tournament Schedule on the official Masters website.
Tee Times for the 2026 Masters Tournament
For the Masters Tournament, tee times follow a structured format across the four rounds:
- Rounds 1 and 2 (Thursday & Friday): Players are grouped in threesomes and tee off from Hole 1 only, unlike some PGA Tour events that use two tees. Tee times usually begin in the morning and continue into the afternoon.
- Rounds 3 and 4 (Saturday & Sunday): After the cut, only qualified players continue. Groups are typically reduced to pairs, and players tee off in order of their scores.
- Final Round (Sunday): The leaders tee off in the final groups during the afternoon, building up to the championship finish and the green jacket presentation.
When Are Tee Times Announced?
- Rounds 1 & 2: Released earlier in the week (usually Tuesday or Wednesday).
- Round 3: Announced after the Friday cut.
- Round 4: Confirmed after Saturday’s round is completed.
Where to Find the Latest Tee Times
- Official Masters Tournament website
- Masters mobile app
- Live TV broadcast coverage and sports networks
How Players Qualify for Masters Tournament in 2026
The player field for the Masters Tournament 2026 is carefully selected through a unique invitation system managed by Augusta National Golf Club. Unlike many other tournaments, the Masters does not have open qualifying. Instead, players earn invitations based on their performances in major championships, world rankings, and selected amateur events.
Because of this system, the Masters consistently features one of the most exclusive and competitive fields in professional golf. The tournament includes a mix of past champions, top-ranked players, and emerging talent from around the world.
Qualification Criteria
Players can qualify for the Masters Tournament through several invitation categories:
- Past Masters champions (lifetime invitation).
- Winners of major championships over the past five years.
- Winners of selected PGA Tour events leading up to the Masters.
- Top players in the Official World Golf Ranking.
- Top finishers from the previous year’s Masters Tournament.
- Winners of prestigious amateur championships (invited as amateurs).
- Players selected through special international invitations.
These qualification categories ensure that the field includes a strong mix of proven champions, consistent performers, and promising young players.
Overview of the Masters Tournament Player Field
The Masters Tournament 2026 is expected to feature a field of approximately 90 to 100 players, making it one of the smallest fields among major championships.
The field represents a wide range of international talent, with players from North America, Europe, Asia, and other regions competing at Augusta National Golf Club.
Because of its invitation-only format, the Masters is known for having one of the most elite fields in golf, where nearly every participant has earned their place through significant achievements.
For the full and updated list, you can explore the 2026 Masters Tournament Player Field on the official Masters website.
Established Stars and Former Champions
The 2026 field includes several well-known players, major champions, and past Masters winners, such as:
- Tiger Woods
- Rory McIlroy
- Jon Rahm
- Scottie Scheffler
- Jordan Spieth
- Phil Mickelson
- Dustin Johnson
- Adam Scott
These players bring experience, proven success, and a strong history at Augusta National, making them key contenders each year.
Contenders and Rising Names
Alongside established stars, the field also features a strong group of contenders and rising talents who have been performing well in recent tournaments, including:
- Ludvig Åberg
- Viktor Hovland
- Collin Morikawa
- Xander Schauffele
- Cameron Young
- Sungjae Im
- Tommy Fleetwood
- Min Woo Lee
These players represent the next generation of golf talent and are capable of challenging for the title against more experienced competitors.
Important Note: Player participation may change before tournament week due to withdrawals, injuries, or scheduling adjustments. Fans should check the official Masters website for the most up-to-date confirmed field and tee times.
Prize Money for Masters Tournament in 2026
The Masters is one of the highest-paying events in professional golf. As the first major of the season, it carries significant financial rewards alongside the green jacket, world ranking points, and major championship exemptions.
Important Note: Augusta National does not officially confirm the prize fund until after the second-round cut during tournament week. The 2026 figure below is an informed estimate based on the confirmed growth trend. The official number will be announced in April 2026.
Purse History & 2026 Estimate
| Year | Total Purse | Winner’s Share | Winner | Year-on-Year increase |
| 2022 | $15,000,000 | $2,700,000 | Scottie Scheffler | +$3.5M |
| 2023 | $18,000,000 | $3,240,000 | Jon Rahm | +$3M |
| 2024 | $20,000,000 | $3,600,000 | Scottie Scheffler | +$2M |
| 2025 | $21,000,000 | $4,200,000 | Rory McIlroy | +$1M |
| 2026 | ~$22,000,000 (est.) | ~$4,400,000 (est.) | TBA | Projected +$1M |
The year-on-year increases have been gradually slowing, from +$3.5M in 2022 to just +$1M in 2025. Based on this pattern, a total purse of approximately $22 million and a winner’s share of around $4.4 million is a reasonable projection for 2026.
These figures are estimates only and will be confirmed by Augusta National during tournament week.
Estimated 2026 Payout Breakdown
| Finishing Position | 2025 Payout (Confirmed) | 2026 Estimate |
| Champion | $4,200,000 | ~$4,400,000 |
| Runner-Up | $2,268,000 | ~$2,376,000 |
| Third Place | $1,428,000 | ~$1,496,000 |
| Fourth Place | $1,008,000 | ~$1,056,000 |
| Fifth Place | $840,000 | ~$880,000 |
| Sixth Place | $756,000 | ~$792,000 |
| Seventh Place | $706,000 | ~$740,000 |
| Eighth Place | $655,200 | ~$686,400 |
| Ninth Place | $613,200 | ~$642,600 |
| Tenth Place | $571,200 | ~$598,800 |
| Missed Cut | $25,000 | ~$25,000+ |
2026 estimates are based on confirmed 2025 payouts with a proportional ~4.7% increase applied. Official figures will be confirmed by Augusta National in April 2026.
Points, Exemptions, and Competitive Rewards
Winning the Masters Tournament provides more than just prize money. Several important rewards are also included:
- Official World Golf Ranking Points: A win or high finish significantly improves global ranking.
- Major Championship Invitations: The winner receives invitations to all four major championships for the next five years.
- PGA Tour Exemption: Typically includes a multi-year exemption on the PGA Tour.
- Masters Invitations: The champion earns a lifetime invitation to the Masters Tournament.
- Tournament Prestige: Winning the Masters is considered one of the highest achievements in golf.
Additional Long-Term Impacts
- Career Achievement: Winning the Masters adds one of the most iconic titles in golf to a player’s career.
- Season Momentum: A strong performance early in the year can boost confidence heading into the rest of the season.
- Financial Security: The large prize fund supports long-term career stability and team expenses.
- Global Recognition: Success at the Masters increases media exposure, sponsorship opportunities, and international reputation.
Important Note: Prize money figures and rewards may be officially updated by tournament organizers before or during Masters week.
How to Watch and Attend the 2026 Masters Tournament
Fans can follow the 2026 Masters Tournament either by attending in person at Augusta National Golf Club or by watching through official television and streaming coverage. The event offers several viewing options, allowing golf fans around the world to follow every round of competition from April 6–12, 2026.
Broadcast Schedule and Streaming Options
Live coverage of the tournament is provided through official broadcast partners, including Prime Video, ESPN, CBS, Golf Channel, and Paramount+, allowing fans to watch the full tournament across television, streaming platforms, and radio.
Broadcast Schedule and Detailed Coverage Times
| Date | Round | TV Coverage |
| Thursday, April 9, 2026 | Round 1 | Prime Video: 1–3 p.m. ET / ESPN & ESPN App: 3–7:30 p.m. ET |
| Friday, April 10, 2026 | Round 2 | Prime Video: 1–3 p.m. ET / ESPN & ESPN App: 3–7:30 p.m. ET |
| Saturday, April 11, 2026 | Round 3 | Paramount+: noon–2 p.m. ET / CBS & Paramount+: 2–7 p.m. ET |
| Sunday, April 12, 2026 | Final Round | Paramount+: noon–2 p.m. ET / CBS & Paramount+: 2–7 p.m. ET |
All live stream times are approximations. Golf Channel will also carry “Live From the Masters” coverage throughout the week.
Featured live coverage during the tournament includes selected player groups and dedicated feeds for Amen Corner (Holes 11, 12 & 13), Holes 4, 5 & 6, and Holes 15 & 16.
New in 2026, Prime Video will offer a dedicated Inside Amen Corner feed, a stats-enhanced experience giving an in-depth look at the strategy behind playing those three iconic holes.
Streaming Options Include
- Prime Video – First and second round coverage from 1–3 p.m. ET, plus Featured Groups, Amen Corner, Inside Amen Corner, and Holes 15 & 16 throughout Rounds 1 and 2.
- ESPN & ESPN App – Rounds 1 and 2 from 3–7:30 p.m. ET, plus Featured Groups, Amen Corner, and Holes 4, 5 & 6.
- Paramount+ – All four competition rounds, plus Featured Groups, Amen Corner, and Holes 15 & 16. Also streams On The Range each morning.
- Masters.com & Masters App – Free coverage including On The Range, Amen Corner, Inside Amen Corner, Featured Groups, Holes 4, 5 & 6, and Holes 15 & 16 across all rounds.
- SiriusXM (Ch. 92) – Radio coverage from 2–8 p.m. ET during all four competition rounds.
These platforms allow fans to watch the tournament live, track players, and follow scoring updates throughout the event.
Ticket Information and On-Site Access
Spectators can attend the 2026 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club with several ticket options available. The Masters operates on a badge system. Tickets are not sold publicly through traditional retail channels and are instead distributed through an annual lottery system managed directly by Augusta National.
Ticket Options
| Badge Type | Access | Notes |
| Four-Day Badge (Series Badge) | All four competition rounds (April 9–12) | Distributed via annual lottery |
| Single-Day Practice Round | Monday (April 6) or Tuesday (April 7) | Limited availability |
| Par 3 Contest | Wednesday, April 8 | Separate ticket required |
| Hospitality Packages (e.g., The Map & Flag) | Full-week premium access | Available through Augusta National hospitality; prices vary |
Ticket prices and availability are set and managed directly by Augusta National Golf Club. Resale tickets may be available through secondary market platforms, though prices can vary significantly based on availability.
For official ticket information, visit masters.com.
Additional On-Site Information
- General Spectator Access: Badge holders are free to walk the course and watch play from any public viewing area across all 18 holes.
- Amen Corner (Holes 11–13): One of the most popular viewing areas on the course, where the tournament is most often won or lost.
- Holes 15 & 16: Another premium spectator zone, known for dramatic approach shots over water and potential tournament-altering moments.
- Par 3 Contest (Wednesday): A fan-favorite tradition the day before the tournament begins, where players compete on Augusta National’s iconic Par 3 Course.
- Merchandise: The Masters Merchandise shop on-site is one of the most popular stops for fans, offering exclusive tournament-branded gear available only during tournament week.
- Mobile Phones: Augusta National has a strict no-mobile-phone policy on the course. Phones must be kept in vehicles or checked at the entrance.
- Food & Concessions: The Masters is well known for its affordable on-site food and drink options, including the famous Pimento Cheese sandwich.
Attending the Masters in person provides a rare and memorable opportunity to watch the world’s best golfers compete at one of the most iconic venues in all of sports.
Key Storylines to Watch at Masters Tournament 2026
The Masters Tournament 2026 will bring four days of top-level golf to Augusta National Golf Club. As the first major of the season, it always attracts the world’s best players and creates some of the most talked-about moments in golf.
Fans following the 2026 tournament can expect:
- Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy Chasing Another Major: Both players are expected to arrive in strong form and could be among the favorites to win the green jacket.
- Jon Rahm Looking to Add Another Masters Title: Rahm remains one of the most consistent performers in major championships and will be a strong contender.
- Tiger Woods and Veteran Presence: If competing, Woods and other experienced players bring attention and experience to the field.
- Young Players Ready to Break Through: Rising talents like Ludvig Åberg and Viktor Hovland could challenge for their first major title.
- Course Conditions at Augusta National: The speed of the greens and weather conditions often play a major role in shaping the leaderboard throughout the week.
Travel, Parking, and Accommodations Guide for Masters Tournament 2026
Travel to Augusta, Georgia
Augusta is located in the southeastern United States and is accessible through several nearby airports for fans traveling to the Masters.
Nearest Airports:
- Augusta Regional Airport
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
Both airports provide domestic and international connections, with Atlanta being the primary hub for most international travelers.
Transportation Options: Visitors commonly travel to the course using rental cars, taxis, rideshare services, or hotel shuttle services available from nearby accommodations.
Parking and Transportation
Public parking is available for spectators attending the Masters, with organized systems designed to manage large crowds efficiently.
| Parking Area | Location | Fee | Details |
| General Parking | Near Augusta National | Free | Official Masters parking is typically free with shuttle access. |
| Private Parking | Nearby private properties | $20+ (approx.) | Locals offer paid parking within walking distance. |
Parking availability may vary depending on the day and demand. Event staff and signage help direct vehicles to the correct areas.
Accommodation Options
Visitors traveling to Augusta for the Masters can choose from a variety of accommodation types:
- Hotels: Augusta and nearby cities offer a range of hotels, though availability is limited during Masters week.
- Rental Homes: Many local residents rent out homes, which is a popular option for groups and families.
- Nearby Cities: Staying in cities like Columbia, South Carolina or Atlanta, Georgia is common, with travel to Augusta on tournament days.
Travel Tip: Masters week is one of the busiest times in Augusta, so booking accommodation well in advance is strongly recommended.
Charity and Community Impact
The Masters Tournament is known not only for world-class golf but also for its contributions to the local community and the sport.
- Community Support: Augusta National supports local education, youth programs, and community development initiatives.
- Economic Impact: The tournament brings thousands of visitors to Augusta each year, benefiting hotels, restaurants, and local businesses.
- Global Promotion of Golf: The Masters helps grow interest in golf worldwide through its global audience and media coverage.
- Volunteer Involvement: Hundreds of volunteers contribute to tournament operations, helping deliver a smooth and successful event.
Through these efforts, the Masters Tournament continues to create a lasting impact both locally and globally, beyond the competition itself.
Final Thoughts
The Masters Tournament 2026 promises another unforgettable week of world-class golf at the iconic Augusta National Golf Club. With a carefully curated field of top-ranked players, rising stars, and past champions, the competition is set to be intense from the opening tee shot to the final putt.
Fans can enjoy every moment through live broadcasts, streaming options, or by attending in person, experiencing the unique traditions, spectacular course conditions, and the drama of stroke play over four rounds.
Beyond the green jacket and prize money, the Masters continues to leave a lasting impact on players, fans, and the Augusta community, solidifying its status as one of the most prestigious and celebrated events in golf.
Key Takeaways
- The Masters Tournament 2026 will be held from April 9–12 at the iconic Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia, U.S.
- This tournament is the first major championship of the men’s professional golf season and marks the 90th edition of the Masters.
- Players compete over 72 holes of stroke play, with the lowest total score crowned as champion and awarded the green jacket.
- The field is by invitation only, featuring top-ranked players, past major winners, and selected amateur champions.
- Augusta National is famous for its par-72 layout, Amen Corner, fast greens, and strategic bunkering that challenge even the best golfers.
- The total prize fund is estimated at $22 million, with the winner expected to earn approximately $4.4 million.
- Tee times are announced in stages, with the final round featuring leaders teeing off in the afternoon for dramatic finishes.
- Fans can watch the Masters live through Prime Video, ESPN, CBS, Paramount+, Masters.com, and radio coverage via SiriusXM.
- The tournament includes pre-competition events such as practice rounds, the Par-3 Contest, and the Champions Dinner, maintaining its rich traditions.
- The Masters has a significant community and global impact, supporting local initiatives, boosting tourism, and promoting golf worldwide.
FAQs
When is the Masters Tournament 2026?
The 2026 Masters runs from April 9–12, with the four competition rounds played Thursday through Sunday. Practice rounds begin on Monday, April 6, and the Par 3 Contest is held on Wednesday, April 8.
Where is the Masters Tournament played?
The Masters is played at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia, United States. It is the only major championship that is held at the same course every single year.
Who is the defending champion at the 2026 Masters?
Rory McIlroy is the defending champion, having won the 2025 Masters to complete the career Grand Slam. McIlroy has stated he would love to defend the title, calling it a rare feat in Masters history.
What channel is the Masters on in 2026?
Rounds 1 and 2 (Thursday and Friday) air on Prime Video from 1–3 p.m. ET and ESPN from 3–7:30 p.m. ET. Rounds 3 and 4 (Saturday and Sunday) air on CBS and Paramount+ from 2–7 p.m. ET. Free coverage is also available on Masters.com and the Masters App throughout the week.
How much does the Masters winner earn in 2026?
The official prize fund has not yet been confirmed by Augusta National. Based on the confirmed 2025 purse of $21 million — where Rory McIlroy earned $4.2 million, the 2026 winner is estimated to earn around $4.4 million from a total purse of approximately $22 million. The official figure will be announced during tournament week.
How do players qualify for the Masters?
The Masters is by invitation only and has the smallest field among the four major championships. Players qualify through several criteria, including being a past Masters champion, winning a major in the last five years, finishing in the top 12 at the previous year’s Masters, and ranking among the top players in the Official World Golf Ranking. In 2026, a new category was also added, winners of selected national opens such as the Scottish Open, Spanish Open, Japan Open, Hong Kong Open, Australian Open, and South African Open now receive automatic invitations.
How many players are in the 2026 Masters field?
The 2026 Masters field includes approximately 88 players expected to compete, with 103 having qualified under various criteria. This makes it one of the smallest fields among major championships in professional golf.
When are tee times released for the Masters?
What is the cut rule at the Masters?
After two rounds, the field is cut to the top 50 players and ties. Any player not within that group does not advance to the weekend rounds on Saturday and Sunday.

