Q&A → 2026 Masters Cut Line
2026 Masters Cut Line | What Score Makes the Cut at Augusta?
The Masters cut is unlike any other major. Augusta National's low 50 and ties rule, combined with the 10-shot rule, means field players have multiple ways to survive the cut. Understanding how the cut works — and what score it typically falls at — is key context for following Masters week.
How the Masters Cut Works
The Masters uses a two-part cut system introduced in 2013:
- Low 50 and ties: The 50 lowest-scoring players after 36 holes automatically advance to Saturday's third round.
- 10-shot rule: Any player within 10 strokes of the 36-hole leader also advances, regardless of their position relative to the 50-player cut. This rule is unique to the Masters among the four majors.
The 10-shot rule can significantly expand the field into the weekend in low-scoring conditions. If the leader is -12 through 36 holes, any player at -2 or better would survive. This rule also protects former champions and well-known names who are playing poorly — Augusta historically has had a soft spot for keeping prestige players in the tournament.
Historical Masters Cut Lines (Recent Years)
| Year | Cut Score | To Par | Winner | Notable Miss |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | +1 (143–144) | +1 to +2 | Rory McIlroy | Several top-20 players |
| 2024 | +2 (146) | +2 | Scottie Scheffler | Luke List, others |
| 2023 | +3 (147) | +3 | Jon Rahm | Multiple near-misses at +4 |
| 2022 | +3 (147) | +3 | Scottie Scheffler | Louis Oosthuizen |
| 2021 | +4 (148) | +4 | Hideki Matsuyama | Dustin Johnson missed cut |
| 2020 | -1 (143) | -1 | Dustin Johnson | November conditions (COVID year) |
| 2019 | +4 (148) | +4 | Tiger Woods | Matt Kuchar (+5) |
| 2018 | +4 (148) | +4 | Patrick Reed | Dustin Johnson (+5) |
The 2020 cut was played in November (COVID rescheduling); softer conditions and lower rough made Augusta play significantly easier.
What Makes Augusta's Cut Unique?
- No fixed number: Unlike the US Open (top 60 + ties) or PGA Championship (low 70 + ties), the Masters uses low 50 + ties + 10-shot rule — making the size of the weekend field variable.
- Past champions exempt from cut: Until recently, all former Masters champions were exempt from the 36-hole cut for life. Augusta National quietly ended this tradition in 2020, citing competitive considerations. Past champions now play under the same cut rules as the rest of the field.
- Scoring conditions matter enormously: Spring Augusta (April) typically sees afternoon winds making the back nine treacherous. The 2020 November cut (-1) is an outlier driven by cooler, calmer fall conditions.
- Field size: The Masters invites ~88–90 players, smaller than other majors. This tight field means the cut is more competitive — fewer players fighting for those 50 spots.
Notable Masters Cut Misses
| Player | Year | 36-Hole Score | Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tiger Woods | 2022 | +6 (150) | Return from car accident; remarkable to even compete |
| Dustin Johnson | 2021 | +10+ | Defending champion (2020) missed the cut |
| Rory McIlroy | 2019 | +2 survived | Made cut but well off pace; finished T21 |
| Phil Mickelson | Multiple | Various | Phil made 23 consecutive Masters cuts (1990–2012) |
2026 Masters Cut Prediction
Based on historical averages for April conditions at Augusta National:
- Expected cut line: Even par (144) to +3 (147)
- Likely cut score: +1 to +2 (143–146), consistent with recent years
- Key variable: Thursday–Friday weather. Windy conditions push the cut higher (easier to survive); calm scoring days lower the cut line.
- 10-shot rule impact: If a big name goes low early (e.g., Scheffler at -10 through 36), the 10-shot rule extends survival to anyone at even par or better.
Players who average 72–74 per round (even par to +2 per day) should feel comfortable about surviving to the weekend at Augusta in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Masters cut line?
The Masters cut advances the low 50 players and ties after 36 holes, plus any player within 10 strokes of the lead. This two-part rule is unique to Augusta National among the four majors. Historically, the cut line falls between even par (+0) and +3 over 36 holes (144–147 total strokes). In low-scoring conditions, it can fall to -1 or -2.
Has the cut line changed at Augusta?
Yes. Before 2013, the Masters used a "low 44 and ties" format. In 2013, Augusta National expanded to "low 50 and ties" and added the 10-shot rule. Additionally, past champions were historically exempt from the cut for life, but this exception was quietly removed around 2020. The Masters continues to evolve its cut format while maintaining its distinctive approach compared to other majors.
What score makes the Masters cut in 2026?
Expect the 2026 Masters cut to fall around +1 to +3 (143–147 over 36 holes). Players at even par or better should advance comfortably. The exact cut depends heavily on April weather conditions — windy days make the course play harder and raise the cut number; calm scoring days can lower it significantly.