Masters 2026 Explained: McIlroy’s Next Mission, Top Contenders, Big Absences, What's New at Augusta

The Masters remains one of golf's most iconic and tradition-rich events, and the 2026 edition arrives with compelling storylines, familiar rituals, and a shifting competitive landscape.

From Rory McIlroy's renewed motivation to the absence of legends like Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, here's a complete breakdown of what to expect at Augusta National this year.

A New Chapter for Rory McIlroy

Rory McIlroy enters this year's Masters with a different mindset. Having finally completed the career Grand Slam with his dramatic win last year, the Northern Irishman is now chasing fresh goals rather than a long-awaited milestone.

He acknowledged that achieving the Grand Slam felt like reaching a destination-only to realize there is still much more to accomplish in the sport. That shift in perspective could prove crucial as he attempts to become only the fourth player in history to win back-to-back Masters titles.

2026 Masters: Key Dates and Format

The Masters continues to hold its traditional slot in the golfing calendar:

• Start Date: First full week of April (Thursday start)
• Par 3 Contest: Wednesday tradition since 1960
• Ceremonial Tee Shots: Legends like Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, and Tom Watson open proceedings

The tournament maintains its exclusivity with a 91-player field, in line with Augusta National's preference for a smaller, elite group.

Top Contenders to Watch

The 2026 Masters features a strong field with multiple contenders:

• Rory McIlroy: Defending champion with renewed motivation
• Scottie Scheffler: World No. 1 and two-time Masters champion, enters as the betting favourite
• Jon Rahm: Former champion with consistent major pedigree
• Bryson DeChambeau: In form with recent LIV Golf wins
• Ludvig Åberg & Xander Schauffele: Emerging and consistent threats

Scheffler's dominance over the past three years makes him the man to beat, though recent quiet performances add intrigue.

Big Absences This Year

Two of golf's biggest names will not feature are Tiger Woods and Phil Mickleson. Woods misses his second straight Masters while taking an indefinite break following legal and personal issues. Phil Mickelson is absent due to a family health matter.

This marks the first Masters since 1994 without both Woods and Mickelson, signaling a generational shift in the tournament's spotlight.

What's New at Augusta National?

While the course itself remains largely unchanged-true to its tradition-there are subtle updates:

17th hole tweak: Extended to 450 yards with tee repositioning
New Player Services Building: Indoor parking, Gym and recovery facilities, expanded locker room, and dining for players and families

Even concessions see novelty, with a new item humorously named simply "Candy Bar."

Rising Stars and Debutants

The Masters will also spotlight emerging talent:

• Chris Gotterup: A standout debutant with multiple wins prior to his first Masters appearance
• Ben Griffin & Jacob Bridgeman: Among top-ranked players making their Augusta debut

A total of 22 first-timers will compete, adding unpredictability to the field.

Why the Masters Still Stands Apart

Despite changes in professional golf-especially with the emergence of LIV Golf-the Masters continues to offer stability and prestige. It remains the sport's "rite of spring," combining history, exclusivity, and elite competition in a way no other tournament quite matches.