AUGUSTA, Ga. — The Masters is set to captivate golf fans from April 10 to April 13, 2025, at the iconic Augusta National Golf Club. After a few days of practice, the tournament kicks off with the much-anticipated Par 3 Contest on Wednesday, April 9. This year’s Masters promises to be thrilling, featuring a star-studded field and a local favorite to cheer for.
Among the top contenders is Scottie Scheffler, the world’s No. 1 player and defending champion. Scheffler aims to make history by becoming the first golfer since Tiger Woods in 2002 to win back-to-back Masters titles. With five consecutive top-20 finishes at Augusta, including victories in 2022 and 2024, he’s certainly a player to watch. Despite a minor hand injury sustained when a wine glass broke in his hand last Christmas, Scheffler has shown resilience and determination leading up to the tournament.
Collin Morikawa is another strong competitor, known for his precision with irons. The two-time major champion has recorded three consecutive top-10 finishes at the Masters, including a tie for third last year. Morikawa's impressive track record makes him a formidable opponent as he seeks to add another major title to his resume.
Rory McIlroy, a crowd favorite, is also in the mix. With two PGA Tour victories already this year, McIlroy is on a roll, looking to complete his career Grand Slam by finally winning the Masters. However, he has had his share of near misses at Augusta, with a tumultuous history that includes a total collapse in 2011. Yet, his recent form suggests he could be on the verge of breaking through.
Jon Rahm, the 2023 Masters champion, is another player to keep an eye on. After winning the green jacket last year, Rahm has continued to perform well, finishing tied for ninth in his best showing this year at a Miami tournament. His experience and skill at Augusta make him a consistent threat.
Rounding out the favorites is Ludvig Aberg, who made a remarkable debut at the Masters last year with a runner-up finish to Scheffler. The young Swede has already secured a victory at Torrey Pines this year and is known for his accuracy with irons, making him a dark horse in this year’s field.
For those looking for a longshot, Sergio Garcia might be worth a bet, despite being a 90-to-1 shot. The 2017 champion has shown flashes of brilliance lately, including a recent LIV victory. This year marks his 100th major appearance, and with experience on his side, he could surprise many.
The weather forecast for the Masters looks promising, with sunny skies expected throughout the tournament. Temperatures are projected to peak at 76 degrees on Thursday, although there’s a chance of morning showers on Friday that may affect the second round. The calm winds and reduced humidity over the weekend should create ideal playing conditions.
Fans eager to watch the action can tune in to ESPN and CBS, with ESPN covering the Par 3 Contest and the first two rounds. CBS will take over for the final two rounds. Streaming options are also available through Paramount+, ESPN+, and the Masters app, providing comprehensive coverage of featured groups and holes.
In addition to the star players, local golf fans will have a vested interest in amateur Noah Kent, a 20-year-old from Naples, Florida. Kent qualified for the Masters following a runner-up finish at the U.S. Amateur Championship last summer. He will be competing alongside two-time Masters champion Bernhard Langer and Will Zalatoris, who boasts seven top-10 finishes in major tournaments. Their group will tee off at 8:35 a.m. on Thursday and 11:49 a.m. on Friday.
As the anticipation builds for the Masters, golf enthusiasts can expect a week filled with excitement, drama, and the potential for history-making performances. With the stakes high and the competition fierce, the 2025 Masters promises to deliver unforgettable moments on the hallowed grounds of Augusta National.
How to watch the Masters:
- Wednesday, April 9: Par 3 Contest from noon to 4 p.m. EDT on ESPN.
- Thursday, April 10: Round 1 coverage from 3 to 7:30 p.m. EDT on ESPN.
- Friday, April 11: Round 2 coverage from 3 to 7:30 p.m. EDT on ESPN.
- Saturday, April 12: Round 3 coverage from 2 to 7 p.m. EDT on CBS.
- Sunday, April 13: Final round coverage from 2 to 7 p.m. EDT on CBS.
As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on Augusta, where legends are made and the quest for the coveted green jacket continues.
