The 89th Masters Tournament is set to kick off on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at the iconic Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia. This year’s event promises to be a thrilling showcase of golfing talent as 95 of the world’s best players vie for the coveted green jacket, including some familiar names and a few rising stars.
As the anticipation builds, the week leading up to the Masters is filled with tradition and excitement. On Wednesday, April 9, golfers will participate in the practice round and the much-loved Masters Par 3 Contest, which offers a lighter, more family-friendly atmosphere before the serious competition begins. The first round of the tournament is scheduled to start on Thursday, with play commencing at 8 a.m. local time.
Defending champion Scottie Scheffler, who clinched his second green jacket in 2024 with a score of 11-under 277, is the favorite to win again. Scheffler's remarkable performance last year showcased his skill and determination, and he aims to become only the fourth player in history to win back-to-back Masters titles, joining legends like Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods.
"Winning the Masters is a dream come true, and to have the chance to defend my title is something I’ve always wanted to do," Scheffler said during a recent press conference. "I feel ready and excited to compete against the best in the world once again."
Rory McIlroy, currently ranked second in the world, is also a player to watch this week. McIlroy is on a quest to capture the only major title that has eluded him throughout his illustrious career. After a strong performance in 2024, where he finished as the runner-up, McIlroy is hungry for victory.
"This year feels different for me. I’ve been working hard, and I believe this could be the year I finally put on the green jacket," McIlroy expressed, reflecting his determination to succeed.
The Masters is not just about the favorites; it also features a host of other talented golfers. Notable names include Jon Rahm, the reigning U.S. Open champion and 2023 Masters winner, as well as Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka, who are both part of the LIV Golf Tour. Their participation adds an intriguing dynamic to the tournament, as it represents one of the few opportunities for PGA Tour players and LIV golfers to compete head-to-head.
Among the Canadian contingent, Mike Weir, the only Canadian to have won the Masters, will be in the field alongside Corey Conners, Taylor Pendrith, and Nick Taylor. Conners, currently the highest-ranked Canadian golfer at 23rd in the world, is looking to build on his impressive performances in previous Masters tournaments, where he has consistently finished in the top 10.
"I’m excited to represent Canada and show what we can do on this stage. I’ve had some good finishes here and hope to improve on that this year," Conners said, emphasizing his competitive spirit.
Weather conditions are looking promising for the tournament. The National Weather Service forecasts a mix of sunshine and clouds, with temperatures ranging between 17 and 22 degrees Celsius throughout the weekend. However, Friday may bring rain, with a 70% chance of showers, which could impact play.
As always, the Masters is steeped in tradition. The green jacket ceremony, where the previous year's champion presents the jacket to the new winner, remains one of the most cherished moments of the tournament. The jacket itself is a symbol of golfing excellence and has been awarded since 1949.
In addition to the competitive spirit, the Masters is known for its unique culinary offerings. The iconic pimento cheese sandwich remains a fan favorite, priced at just $1.50, while other concessions are offered at reasonable prices, ensuring that patrons can enjoy quality food without breaking the bank.
This year’s Masters promises to be a captivating event filled with drama, excitement, and the rich traditions that make it one of golf’s most prestigious tournaments. As players finalize their preparations, the world watches with bated breath, eager to see who will emerge victorious and don the coveted green jacket come Sunday, April 13.
With the tournament just around the corner, fans can tune in to watch all the action. In the United States, live coverage will be provided by ESPN and CBS, while Canadian viewers can catch the event on TSN and RDS. Streaming options will also be available on Masters.com and the Masters YouTube page.
As the countdown to the Masters continues, the excitement is palpable. Will Scottie Scheffler defend his title, or will Rory McIlroy finally claim his first green jacket? The stage is set, and the world of golf is ready for another unforgettable chapter in the storied history of the Masters Tournament.
