As the sun rises on Augusta, Georgia, the excitement for The Masters Tournament is palpable. Kicking off on Thursday, April 10, 2025, the prestigious event has drawn the best golfers from around the world, all eager to don the coveted green jacket. Among the names to watch is Viktor Hovland, who has made headlines not only for his play but also for his distinctive style.
On Tuesday, April 8, Hovland arrived at Augusta National Golf Course in a bold blue and green sweater that quickly became the talk of social media. The sweater, featuring a golf landscape design, showcased Hovland's confident personality as he prepared for the first major tournament of the season. His fashion choice echoes the sentiments of fellow PGA star Jason Day, who has often made waves in the golf fashion scene. Day, who had to submit his wardrobe for approval by Augusta National, might find himself envious of Hovland's audacious look.
Hovland's attire isn't the only thing making waves; his performance leading into The Masters has also been a topic of discussion. Currently, he is listed with +3500 odds to win the tournament, placing him 13th among the 95 players in the field. Despite struggling earlier this season with three missed cuts in six tournaments, Hovland found his footing by winning the Valspar Championship last month, an achievement that ended an 18-month title drought. His final-round score of 67 included birdies on the 14th, 16th, and 17th holes, showcasing his resilience and skill.
While Hovland's comeback is impressive, he is not the only golfer capturing attention this Masters week. Scottie Scheffler, who has faced struggles of his own, is another player to watch. After suffering a hand injury over the Christmas holidays, Scheffler admitted it took time to regain strength and confidence. His recent T2 finish at the Texas Children’s Houston Open suggests he may be returning to form just in time for Augusta.
And then there's Rory McIlroy, who has had a remarkable start to the season with two wins in five starts and a consistent record that hasn't seen him finish worse than T17. With seven top-10 finishes at Augusta National, McIlroy is a perennial favorite, and many believe this could finally be his year to complete the career grand slam.
However, the question remains: which version of Bryson DeChambeau will show up? After a T6 finish at last year's Masters, DeChambeau has been quiet this season. Yet, he claims to be in a “great frame of mind,” which could bode well for his performance.
As the tournament approaches, another name on the rise is Ludvig Aberg, currently the No. 5 player in the world after a win at the Genesis Invitational in February. He finished second in his first-ever Masters last year and is looking to make a statement this time around.
Yet, not all eyes are on the favorites. Joaquin Niemann, who has struggled to break into the top 10 in major tournaments despite being a talented player, is hoping to change his narrative this week. With two LIV wins under his belt this year, can he finally shine on the major stage?
Phil Mickelson, at 54 years old, remains a wild card. Having finished as the runner-up two years ago, Mickelson has shown he can still compete, finishing 3rd and 6th in his recent LIV starts. His experience and course knowledge may prove invaluable at Augusta.
Collin Morikawa is another player to keep an eye on. With two major wins and a strong performance this season, he is leading the Tour in Strokes Gained: Approach. His results at Augusta have been impressive, with three consecutive top-10 finishes, including a third-place finish last year.
This year's Masters is not just about the players but also the conditions. After a rain-soaked Monday, the weather is expected to clear up, providing ideal conditions for the tournament. The last four Masters champions have all finished around 10 to 12 under par, setting a potential benchmark for this year's players.
As Hovland prepares for his sixth Masters appearance, he reflects on his journey and the importance of mental resilience. He recently shared how he draws inspiration from Eminem's movie "8 Mile," likening his approach to facing challenges openly, which he believes helps him overcome fears and improve his game. Hovland's willingness to be transparent about his struggles resonates with fans and aspiring golfers alike.
With The Masters just days away, the anticipation is building. Will Viktor Hovland's stylish arrival translate into a strong performance? Can Rory McIlroy finally capture the elusive green jacket? Or will an underdog like Niemann or Aberg steal the spotlight? The stage is set, and the world will be watching as the drama unfolds at Augusta National.
As the countdown to Thursday's first round continues, all eyes are on the legendary course, where every swing could lead to history. The Masters is more than just a tournament; it's a celebration of golf's finest, and this year promises to deliver excitement, surprises, and unforgettable moments.
