2026 Masters Predictions: Who Will Win?
Dates: April 9–12, 2026 | Venue: Augusta National Golf Club, Augusta, Georgia | Defending champion: Rory McIlroy
The Big Storylines
The 2026 Masters is one of the most anticipated in years. Two mega-narratives dominate:
- Can Rory go back-to-back? Rory McIlroy defends after his emotional 2025 win. A second consecutive green jacket would make him the first player since Tiger Woods (2001–02) to win back-to-back Masters.
- Scheffler chasing the US Open piece. Scottie Scheffler needs the US Open (2026 US Open at Shinnecock Hills, June 18–21) for the Career Grand Slam — but a third Masters title would further cement his GOAT-era credentials.
Top Contenders for 2026
1. Scottie Scheffler — World No. 1
The betting favorite at every major he enters. Scheffler is a two-time Masters champion (2022, 2024), the most consistent ball-striker in the game, and has an Augusta record that's unmatched among active players. His ability to control irons on Augusta's demanding approach shots is elite. The question isn't if he contends — it's whether the pressure of chasing the Career Grand Slam affects his usual composure.
2. Rory McIlroy — Defending Champion
McIlroy arrives having exorcised his Augusta demons in the most dramatic fashion. Having finally won the green jacket in 2025, he no longer carries the psychological burden that made him a perennial near-miss. A relaxed, unburdened Rory at Augusta could be the most dangerous player in the field. He has the game — now he has the confidence too.
3. Jon Rahm — 2023 Champion
Rahm won Augusta in 2023 and is one of the best Augusta-suited players in the world. His aggressive, powerful style suits the course's sweeping fairways, and his putting when hot is among the best in the game. He's always a threat here.
4. Jordan Spieth
The 2015 Masters champion and one of Augusta's most historically successful players. Spieth's extraordinary short game and putting on Augusta's slick greens make him a perennial contender regardless of his overall form coming in.
5. Xander Schauffele
The reigning Olympic champion has finally broken his major duck. An elite ball-striker and consistent finisher, Schauffele is always in contention at Augusta.
6. Collin Morikawa
Two-time major champion with elite iron play. Augusta rewards precision over power, which suits Morikawa perfectly.
Masters History Favors These Players
| Player | Previous Masters Wins | 2026 Storyline |
|---|---|---|
| Scottie Scheffler | 2 (2022, 2024) | World No. 1, Career Grand Slam pursuit |
| Rory McIlroy | 1 (2025) | Defending champion, back-to-back bid |
| Jon Rahm | 1 (2023) | Past champion, always dangerous at Augusta |
| Jordan Spieth | 1 (2015) | Augusta specialist, elite short game |
| Tiger Woods | 5 | Wildcard — if healthy, always a factor at Augusta |