🟢LIVE BLOG: Families take spotlight for Par 3 contest
APRIL 8, 2026
6:38 p.m.: Here are the results of the Par 3 Contest
Aaron Rai won the Par 3 Contest held Wednesday with a score of six-under-par 21.
Four holes-in-one were recorded: Justin Thomas (No. 2), Tommy Fleetwood (No. 4), Wyndham Clark (No. 7) and Keegan Bradley (No. 8).
Since the inception of the Par 3 Contest in 1960, 119 total holes-in-one have been made.
Trophies are awarded to the winner and to the contestants who place their tee shot nearest the flagstick on each of the nine holes.
| Hole No. | Player | Distance From Flagstick |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | O’Meara | 44 inches |
| 2 | Thomas | Hole-in-one |
| 3 | Spaun | 7 inches |
| 4 | Fleetwood | Hole-in-one |
| 5 | D. Johnson | 26 inches |
| 6 | Burns | 3 inches |
| 7 | Clark | Hole-in-one |
| 8 | Bradley | Hole-in-one |
| 9 | O’Meara | 20 inches |
6 p.m.: 8-year-old steals the show at Par 3 Contest
Eight-year-old Frankie Fleetwood stole the show at Augusta National from his dad, Tommy Fleetwood, who merely had one of the many holes-in-one Wednesday during the family friendly Par 3 Contest on the eve of the Masters.
The young Fleetwood went viral last year when he lamented in a post-round interview that he couldn’t clear Ike’s Pond, which fronts the ninth green on the par-3 course. So all eyes were on him this year, even after Tommy had aced the fourth hole an hour earlier.
“I’m not so confident,” Frankie admitted, “but honestly on the range this afternoon I felt good, so I feel like I got a chance.”
5:33 p.m.: Amateur Howell paired with champion McIlroy
Rory McIlroy, Cam Young and amateur Mason Howell will tee off at 10:31 a.m. The defending champion traditionally plays alongside the U.S. Amateur champion.
McIlroy and Howell have shared a course before. Howell first saw McIlroy at East Lake Golf Club when he was nine years old.
“I’ve got his ball in my bag right now, one that he gave me in 2016. So, yeah, I’m going to say I’m going to play the first hole with a Nike, which I’m not,” Howell said. “It says ‘Rors’ on the side. But that would be a power move. But, yeah, that’s kind of the plan. Hopefully it doesn’t get back to him before Thursday.”
5:15 p.m.: Sage Valley winners in the field
Four players in the field have won the Sage Valley Junior Invitational in the area. Scottie Scheffler, Akshay Bhatia, Tom McKibbin and Aldrich Potgieter each won the tournament. Scheffler is the only golfer to win both the Sage Valley Junior Invitational and the Masters.
Potgieter has not returned to Augusta National Golf Club since winning the golden jacket in 2023.
“I think the prep for this week has been a lot different. Got a lot bigger team with me this week. I have coaches, stats guys, physios. So it’s been a big week on that side just with everything going on, not just on the golf course practicing,” Potgieter said.
5:08 p.m.: Funny moments during the Par 3 Contest
Comedian Kevin Hart caddied for Bryson DeChambeau in the Par 3 Contest at Augusta National.
Meanwhile, ex-NFL lineman Jason Kelce was guiding Akshay Bhatia around the short course in this low-key event the day before the start of the Masters.
Other players had family members alongside them, including young children.
Hart joked that he might take over the putting part too if DeChambeau wasn’t doing what he asked.
At first, Kelce’s main contribution seemed to be cleaning Bhatia’s clubs as they walked toward one hole.
But eventually he started lying on his stomach in a dramatic attempt to help read a putt.
4:35 p.m.: How long will Masters record stand?
The tournament record at the Masters is 63 and has been for three decades.
Only two players have ever shot rounds of 9 under at Augusta National, the first being Nick Price in 1986 and the second Greg Norman a decade later.
It’s one shot higher than the low score at any of the other major championships.
So, what makes the Masters so hard?
For one thing, the course has been lengthened dramatically over the years, helping to offset changes in technology.
For another, the slick, undulating putting surfaces might be the most challenging that anybody plays all year.
Still, count Justin Rose among those who are surprised nobody has shot 62 at the Masters.
He shot rounds of 65 and 66 last year before losing in a Sunday playoff to Rory McIlroy.
4 p.m.: Scheffler’s hands are full with golf, parenthood
Scottie Scheffler has two kids and two Masters titles.
He’s the favorite in this week’s tournament, as he tends to be for all majors these days. But his family life has been more exciting than his golf recently.
His son Bennett turns 2 next month, and Remy was born less than two weeks ago.
It was hard to tell which of the kids was more of a hit at today’s family friendly Par 3 Contest at Augusta National.
Remy was carried by Meredith in a baby wrap, and Bennett knocked the ball around with a blue toy club.
2:55 p.m.: Jason Day is ‘energized and ready to go tomorrow’
Jason Day said the family-friendly and relaxed Wednesday ahead of the 2026 Masters was a good change.
“It’s a good change because we don’t get this in the majors and obviously the Players, as well. Typically everyone is kind of making their last-minute adjustments on a Wednesday. And we’re out here with our families enjoying it, which is great,” he said.
“All the patrons come out and enjoy themselves, and it’s just a fun event.”
How about the excitement when the shots count tomorrow?
“Once tomorrow starts, it’s not like your typical tour event where Thursday, Friday, everyone kind of talks. As soon as it happens, everyone is kind of focused in, and there’s not much chatter,” he said.
“This is obviously our first major of the year and everyone is trying to win either their first major or trying to win another one. So things are serious tomorrow, and all the prep and all the stuff that you’ve been working on from the start of the year till now, it’s finally here. So you gotta get ready.”
Is he ready?
“I feel energized and ready to go tomorrow,” he said.
2:45 p.m.: Spieth is pleased ahead of tournament
Jordan Spieth is feeling good about his game going into Thursday.
“As good as it’s been in a long time coming into this week. And I like this place. I’ve been able to play this place when it’s been good coming in. I’ve been able to play it well, and when it hasn’t been good coming in, I’ve been able to play it well. So play to the right spots, wait for the chances,” he said.
“Greens are going to be firm. It’s going to be probably a more challenging green-in-regulation year. So it’s going to be important to be coming out of the fairway just because it’s going to be hard to get it to stay on some of the greens if you’re not. And then it’s going to probably get brown and crusty. Just with the weather coming, it’s going to be so nice that I think they’re going to let it go a little bit.”
2:40 p.m.: Ludvig Aberg’s dream day as a patron
“I would get here early, as soon as I can, as soon as the gates open. Walk around, get some sandwiches, get some breakfast. And, yeah, I think there’s a few holes. Obviously you want to see 11, 12, 13. I think you have to see those at some point,” he said.
“I would want to see 16, if I was a fan, especially when they put the pins kind of down left. And, yeah, just don’t take any pictures, I guess, during the tournaments. But just try to soak it in.”
Is there any specific golfer of groups he’d want to follow?
“I would watch Jordan Spieth or Hideki Matsuyama. I love watching them play. You never know what’s going to happen. They might chip it in or hit a flat shot to dead. They’re fun to watch,” he said.
What do you think about patrons without phones?
“It’s very different. It’s very different because a normal tournament seems like there’s a lot of phones up. You want to take videos and pictures and keep up with the scores,” he said.
“That’s very different here. It feels like the fans are a little bit more engaged in the golf. They’re a little bit more attuned to what’s going on. It’s a cool environment to play. It feels like good golf shots are being appreciated in a different way. And it’s also quite nice to just leave your phone somewhere.”
2:12 p.m.: Scheffler appreciates pause before play
To two-time champion Scottie Scheffler, the relaxation of the Par 3 Contest is an important pause before the shots count Thursday.
“It’s really nice. I think major championships can be stressful as you prepare for them, and having an afternoon like this where you can come out and relax and have some fun with my family is really nice,” he said.
The Champions Dinner on Tuesday night was also nice.
“The sticky toffee pudding was really good. I was kind of bummed. I was sitting in the locker room talking to Mr. Coody, and I didn’t get a chance to go outside and have any of the appetizers, which I was kind of bummed about. But overall the meal was great,” he said.
Like the patrons and other players, Scheffler is excited about Thursday.
“The golf course looks like it’s going to get pretty firm and fast, so it should be an exciting tournament,” he said.
“Yeah, I feel like my prep work is mostly done and just get out there and start competing tomorrow.”
1:30 p.m.: Par 3 is ‘the most relaxed we’ll be on a golf course’
Justin Thomas was glad to get a break from the stress during the Par 3 Contest.
“I mean, mentally it’s great, right? It’s probably the least stress, the most relaxed we’ll be on a golf course. It’s depending on what guys are doing, either practice before or maybe do something after or vice versa,” he said.
“But it’s nice to be on the golf course, on the grounds of Augusta National and not be stressed about where the ball is going to go or it being overly difficult. It’s just nothing but fun out here.”
2:02 p.m.: It never gets old for Sergio Garcia
For Sergio Garcia, Augusta National is always exciting.
“Doesn’t matter if obviously you want to play as well as you can but doesn’t matter if you play well or not. To come back here as a Masters champion and do the dinner and enjoy like Wednesday with the kiddos and the wife, you know, there is so many beautiful things that happen here,” he said today.
“Then obviously you hope that you play well, but unfortunately doesn’t happen every time. But, yeah, no, it’s always exciting.”
1:45 p.m.: Meals are still a deal at Augusta National
Inflation may be driving up food costs across the country, but patrons generally won’t see those increases at Augusta National.
The prices here have mostly remained fixed for years, and you can still have a good lunch for under $5.
A club sandwich or barbecue sandwich still goes for $3.
The famed pimento cheese sandwich and egg salad sandwiches are $1.50 each.
And this year, there’s a new addition: the candy bar.
1:03 p.m.: J.J. Spaun’s dream day as a patron
“Yeah, first time here I’m getting here as soon as the gates open. Spend as much time as I can, especially when you have a perfect forecast like this week,” J.J. Spaun said.
“Probably try to set up somewhere on Amen Corner something like that, or the 18th. That would be great.
“But, got to enjoy the food. My favorite is the egg salad sandwiches. That’s what I’m going with. Then the, what is it − how much are beers now these days? Can’t be more than $5. ... So, yeah, probably trying to take advantage of that price and have a lot of beers.”
12:35 p.m.: Photo gallery − Masters Wednesday
12:15 p.m.: Super start to Par 3 Contest
What a way to start the Par 3 Contest. Hole-in-one for Justin Thomas on No. 2. #themasters pic.twitter.com/HHx7hFP73A
— The Masters (@TheMasters) April 8, 2026
11:33 a.m.: Chairman delivers remarks
The first big event of the day at Augusta National Golf Club is remarks from the chairman.
And a question from a reporter is one that probably is near and dear to patrons’ hearts:
Is it true that this is the last year of the Masters gnome?
Augusta National Chairman Fred Ridley had no firm answer. He said he’s been trying for years to get the answer to that question, and no one will tell him.
He noted that the question “is not trivial.”
At 11 a.m., Ridley began remarks in a news conference where he typically outlines the state of the Masters, the golf world and Augusta National’s role in the community.
Soon after opening the news conference, he said the course condition is impeccable and ready for the tournament tomorrow.
Ridley noted the absence of five-time champion Tiger Woods, who decided to step back from golf after his recent arrest on suspicion of driving under the influence of medications.
“We fully support Tiger’s recent decision to focus on his health and well-being,” Ridley said, adding that the organization’s support for Woods “has not wavered.”
He said ground will be broken later this year on the TGR Learning Lab funded by Woods’ foundation to focus on STEAM education for kids.
Mobile programming will begin in 2027, with the lab itself opening in 2028, Ridley said.
In past years, he’s used this news conference to announce initiatives that improve the lives of Augustans, including the redevelopment of the Augusta Municipal Golf Course (also known as The Patch).
And in response to a question from a reporter, Ridley addressed Augusta National’s role in helping to re-envision The Patch.
“We feel that one of our obligations is contributing to the community,” he said.
“The Patch has been a fixture in this community for so many years,” he said, and Augusta National found itself with an “opportunity to take a wonderful piece of property and transform it into something that was really life-changing for people in the community,” he said.
On another subject, he said the organization continues to support golf regulating bodies in their efforts to address shot lengths.
He said Augusta National has been able to accommodate the longer shots being made by golfers, but some iconic venues do not have that leeway.
The new Player Services Building has created a lot of buzz this year, and Ridley was asked if now that this has been done, Augusta National might look at something else, like providing lodgings for the players.
Ridley said Augusta National might be more likely to address housing for the Masters workforce before it looked at housing for the players.
10:42 a.m.: Memories from last night’s Champions Dinner
A Dinner worth the wait. #themasters pic.twitter.com/rOCxrpx28D
— The Masters (@TheMasters) April 8, 2026
The 2026 Champions Dinner portrait. #themasters pic.twitter.com/wn6XTykQU5
— The Masters (@TheMasters) April 8, 2026
The 2026 Champions Dinner portrait. #themasters pic.twitter.com/wn6XTykQU5
— The Masters (@TheMasters) April 8, 2026
10:19 a.m.: Are we in for a new record this year?
Dustin Johnson isn’t worried about his Masters scoring record being broken.
He sounds pretty sure no one is touching it.
The 2020 champion, who set the tournament mark at 20‑under par in his November win, said this week he believes that number is safe — not because of anything he’s doing, but because of what Augusta National is doing to the golf course.
9:59 a.m.: It’s a windy day out on the course
News 12 First Alert meteorologists said today would be windy, and they were right.
Our reporters are experiencing it out on the course, and the players are dealing with it.
And bear in mind that it’ll feel cooler out there with the wind, so be sure to wear a jacket.
Northeast winds will be steady 10-15 mph with gusts up to 30 mph, so dress in layers and secure anything loose.
Thursday will be breezy, too, with northeast winds at 8-12 mph and gusts up to 20 mph. Layers are still your best bet - early tee times will be in the 40s and 50s, but you’ll have comfortable conditions for watching the action in the afternoon with temps in the 60s and 70s.
On Friday, northeast winds will be light at just 5-10 mph, making it feel even more pleasant than the numbers suggest.
9:49 a.m.: To his kids, Brian Harman is just dad
Georgian Brian Harman said this is the first year he’s brought his kids to the Masters.
They’re excited, even though they don’t know the significance of the course and the tournament.
“I think they’re super stoked to be out, but, yeah, I’ve kind of guarded them ... I just like being dad. I don’t like being Brian Harman when I’m around them,” he said.
9:30 a.m.: Schwartzel weighs in on Amen Corner
Charl Schwartzel admits Amen Corner can be a challenge.
“Amen Corner has become a thing, mainly. So everybody talks about it. And then Amen Corner is the wind. When there’s a little bit of wind ... and it gets firm, it becomes really challenging. There’s no real precision. You can hit two shots 30 seconds apart, and you get two different results,” he said.
“It’s challenging in perfect conditions, but make it firm and put a bit of wind, you’re just trying to get through there with not too much damage.”
He discussed his strategy when he won the Masters in 2011.
“At that time, I got to sit down with Jack, and he explained to me how he played it. And it was very − if you think about it, it’s just how you should play, but you always try and get overaggressive. And he was very disciplined in the where to put the ball,“ he said.
“And it’s the same. You go down 11, you gotta move the ball away from the water, you know. And front right is OK. Hard, short, middle of the green, that’s fine. Even if the flag is at the back, it’s the right play.
“Twelve, keep those bunkers in between. So you get a bit of wind change, at least it doesn’t go in the water; it goes in the bunker.
“There’s always that sort of strategy. So I kept that in mind, because you’re not going to win it through those holes, but you can lose it through those holes.”
8:59 a.m.: Amen Corner brings ‘a take-a-breath moment’ for Bhatia
As always, Amen Corner is getting a lot of discussion this year from players in the Masters.
Akshay Bhatia was asked about the mystique surrounding the holes.
“I think 11 is obviously a really cool hole. It’s just one of the hardest holes I think we play all year. Then 12 might be the best 150 yard par-3 in the world. It’s so hard. You can look like a fool; you can also look great hitting it to 40 feet,” he said.
“And that’s what’s great about the Masters. Most of the patrons understand what a great shot is there when they’re watching. Yeah, definitely lives up to the prestige it has, and you know what that feeling is like when you’re walking to that hole. You know it’s going to be tricky and you know it’s going to be − you just got to hit it good and pray that it works out."
And what about the famed silence surrounding 12 and 13?
“Yeah, it’s a definitely kind of a take-a-breath moment. A lot when you come here this tournament is obviously a big deal to a lot of us, whether it’s your first or your 20th. So when you do get to 12 and 13, you almost have a moment to yourself with your caddie whether the round is going good or not. So it is a really nice kind of calming, you can hear the wind blow through the trees, hear the birds. It’s a refreshing feeling.”
8:15 a.m.: Families get the spotlight at Par 3 Contest
One of the most beloved hallmarks of Masters week takes place today: the Par 3 Contest.
The contest begins at noon, with families taking center stage at this laid-back event on Augusta National’s Par 3 Course.
The Masters competitors’ families often serve as caddies and may join the game.
Part competition and part stress relief, it’s a chance for the golfers and their families to relax and have some fun before the stakes get higher in Round 1 of the Masters on Thursday.
The contest has been happening for more than 60 years, with the contestant who has the best score against par after nine holes declared the winner.
No winner of the Par 3 Contest has ever gone on to win the Masters the same year − although many of the golfers don’t post an official score for the contest. Instead, they enjoy a stroll around the nine holes, with their family members trying a chip or a putt now and then.
7:17 a.m.: It’s a beautiful day for golf
Today will be slightly cooler and windier — plan accordingly if you’re attending the Par 3 Contest. Morning temperatures will start in the upper 40s, with afternoon highs only reaching the upper 60s.
This is a breezy day. Northeast winds will be steady 10-15 mph with gusts up to 30 mph, so dress in layers and secure anything loose. Bring a windbreaker or light jacket you can wear throughout the day.
Thursday brings ideal conditions for the first round of the Masters. Morning lows will be in the low 40s with afternoon highs in the low 70s — right on schedule for early April in Augusta.
Don’t forget sunscreen - the UV index will be high.
7:14 a.m.: Traffic is close to normal
The Washington Road exit of eastbound I-20 remains closed right now, with all Masters traffic directed to Riverwatch.
There’s a slight backup at the Riverwatch exit, but with parking lots now open, Riverwatch traffic is close to normal.
APRIL 7, 2026
4:04 p.m.: Photo gallery − Moments from Masters Tuesday
3:48 p.m.: Mason Howell’s memorable week at Masters
You can bet that U.S. Amateur champion Mason Howell is enjoying every minute of his first Masters.
There was the practice round he played Monday with Jacob Bridgeman, a winner on the PGA Tour earlier this year.
In the evening, an exclusive dinner for the amateurs playing in the tournament.
At night, a climb up the clubhouse stairs to the Crow’s Nest, the sleeping quarters nestled beneath the cupola where only amateurs can stay the week of the Masters.
Oh, and the 18-year-old gets to miss some classwork. He’s a high school senior.
“Yeah, it’s kind of a lot to handle,” Howell said with a smile. “It’s a long week.”
An unforgettable week, regardless of how he plays.
3:29 p.m.: Everything you need to know about the Masters
Rory McIlroy might have set the tone for the 90th edition of the Masters shortly after he finally won that coveted green jacket.
“What are we all going to talk about next year?” he said.
It was a reference to how long he tried to win the green jacket for the career Grand Slam. And now? McIlroy gave some insight today.
“What motivates me? What gets me going? What do I still want to achieve in the game? I think that’s the story,” he said. “And there’s still a lot that I want to do. ... I felt like the career Grand Slam was my destination, and I got there, and then I realized it wasn’t the destination.”
McIlroy is trying to become only the fourth player to win back to back at the Masters.
Amid what seems like constant change in golf, the Masters brings a degree of normalcy as golf’s rite of spring and for many, the true opening week of the sport.
3 p.m.: Champions Dinner will bring legends together
The highlight of Masters Tuesday is always the Champions Dinner.
The reigning champion selects a menu for a dinner for the living past champions who can make it.
During a wide-ranging news conference today, defending champion Rory McIlroy discussed the weight of selecting the menu and delivering a few words at the auspicious gathering.
McIlroy said he procrastinated at first, then put a lot of thought into designing a menu that reflects his experiences but is broadly appealing.
He said he didn’t go “too Irish” because, as he jokes, he wants to enjoy the meal himself.
But he said he’s thought more about what to say at the dinner than the food itself. He wants to express gratitude to the icons in the room.
“Talking in front of that group, I want to say the right things and make sure I get my feelings across of how grateful I am to be a part of that group,” he said.
The weight of being around legends also weighed heavily on 2023 champion Jon Rahm.
Rahm described his own dinner as nerve‑racking and “daunting,” sitting among Tom Watson, Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, Gary Player and others.
As an extra emotional layer, his dinner landed on Spanish golf legend Seve Ballesteros’ birthday.
The night turned into an impromptu Seve tribute, with José María Olazábal and others sharing stories Rahm had never heard.
“It was quite unique to see a full room of grown men, in essence, acting like kids again because of the love they have for this game and the stories of Seve,” Rahm said.
At Rahm’s second Champions Dinner, hosted by Scottie Scheffler, he sat between Sergio García and José María Olazábal.
He calls that seating “almost like a dream come true,” only missing Seve.
Here’s what’s on the menu tonight:
- Appetizers: Peach and ricotta flatbread with balsamic, hot honey and basil; rock shrimp tempura with creamy spicy sauce; bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with goat cheese and almonds; grilled elk sliders topped with caramelized onion jam and roasted garlic aioli.
- First course: Yellowfin tuna carpaccio, paired with foie gras, toasted baguette and chives.
- Main course: Choice of wagyu filet mignon or seared salmon.
- Sides: Traditional Irish champ, sautéed Brussels sprouts, glazed carrots with brown butter, and crispy Vidalia onion rings.
- Dessert: Sticky toffee pudding, with vanilla ice cream and warm toffee sauce.
- Wines: 2015 Salon “S” Brut (Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Champagne); 2022 Domaine Leflaive Batard-Montrachet (Puligny-Montrachet, Burgundy); 1990 Chateau Lafite Rothschild (Pauillac, Bordeaux); 1989 Chateau d’Yquem (Sauternes, Bordeaux)
1:45 p.m.: Masters players come from 23 nations
The Masters has players from 23 countries, but 40 years ago, only 11 nations were represented.
Bernhard Langer says the Official World Golf Ranking was a key to globalize golf at a time when the PGA Tour made it hard on Europeans.
He says the majors buying into the ranking gave them more opportunity to play.
Before the ranking, Langer says Americans didn’t know much about players beyond their shores.
1:09 p.m.: ‘It’s been an amazing 12 months’ for McIlroy
Defending Masters champion Rory McIlroy says it’s hard to believe it’s been a year since he earned the coveted title.
“It’s been an amazing 12 months, bringing this thing all around the world,” he said of the green jacket. “The excitement on people’s faces when they see it, the excitement of putting it on.”
During a news conference this afternoon, he said it’s nearly time to turn his full attention to the tournament.
“I’ve got one more thing to embrace tonight, and that’s the champions dinner, then turn my attention to the golf tournament,” he said.
What’s the most difficult part of defending his title?
“Probably the 90 other players that are in the field,” he said.
“It’s maybe not the largest field in golf, but it’s the strongest,” he said, with so many talented players.
12:34 p.m.: Players prepare under ideal conditions
Players are taking advantage of ideal weather conditions at Augusta National Golf Club as they prepare for the 90th Masters Tournament.
The weather is adding to anticipation that the tournament will be competitive, with the first round set to begin Thursday.
Top players spent the morning on the practice range dialing in their shots before the competition begins. Reigning Masters champion Rory McIlroy was out early, going through his shots by himself.
This is the last full day players have to prepare before the Par Three Contest on Wednesday afternoon.
Jon Rahm, the 2023 Masters champion, said he has struggled to return to winning form since his victory but feels he has positioned himself for success this year. He said he has worked to break tendencies that have held his game back.
“I think I got into some bad habits,” Rahm said. “Set the pace for this year.”
Cameron Young enters the tournament on a hot streak. The 2026 Players Championship winner and world number three will compete in his fifth Masters.
The 28-year-old has back-to-back top-ten finishes at Augusta National. After years of finishing second on tour, Young has found his winning form.
“Yeah, it’s certainly a confidence boost. It’s more validation that, when I play well, I can put myself in those situations,” Young said. “I feel like I’ve been in plenty of them over the last four or five years, and it’s nice over the last eight months or so to have two of them kind of shake out my way.”
12:10 p.m.: Groupings and start times released for Thursday
12:06 p.m.: Amen Corner’s quiet challenge
What goes through a golfer’s mind in Amen Corner?
Nicolai Højgaard actually couldn’t tell you − he’s never analyzed it.
Like on 13 ...
“I don’t know to be fair. I never thought about standing there. It’s obviously very quiet.”
How would he describe playing Amen Corner?
“Pretty special. Yeah, it’s a big turning point for the round, I would say. If you get through those holes, I would say under par, you have done a very, very good job,” he said.
Matt Fitzpatrick also noted how quiet 13 is.
“It is really nice,” he said. “You can’t hear anything back there really, just like a low buzz of the crowd and stuff. It’s obviously a great-looking tee box, as well. I wish it was a bit further forward for me. Yeah, on the whole, it’s a nice place to be.”
Still, he doesn’t have an inner calm.
“I’ve never been in contention here,” he said, “so it’s not like I’ve kind of had to have any peace moments out there.”
Jason Day said Tuesday it’s a tough part of the course, but valuable.
“What’s so unique about Augusta is that they have their own traditions and the way that they like to set up a golf course. And no matter what you do, they’re going to do it their way, which is fine,” he said.
“So once you get past and beyond that where you think things are a little unfair, you learn to work your way around it,” he said.
“So 11, 12 and 13 is just such a risk-reward kind of golf holes. Tough 11th. Obviously unique 12 and birdie 13.”
11:16 a.m.: Fleetwood hopes for ‘unbelievably special’ win
Winning the Masters would mean a lot to Tommy Fleetwood − something “unbelievably special” and one of the top career achievements in golf.
During a news conference this morning, he said he often visualizes iconic Masters moments like walking up 18, holing the putt, putting on the green jacket.
His best finish so far is third, but he notes he was never really in contention because Scottie Scheffler was so far ahead that year.
What might make him happiest?
Being in serious contention on Augusta’s last nine on Masters Sunday. It’s never happened but it’s something he wants badly.
That’s why he’s more focused now on doing only what truly helps him contend on Sunday, rather than trying to experience everything at the tournament.
“I would love to be there late on Sunday with a chance, those juices flowing on the back nine of Augusta,” he said.
“I’ve never had that joy yet.”
His love of the Masters goes back decades.
His earliest TV memories are mid-1990s Masters competitions with Tiger Woods, and he recalls his dad saying Tiger would be “unbelievable.”
Initially his dream was simply to play the Masters and reach the most famous holes.
Now his goal is to win.
He says you learn most from your own mistakes at Augusta National — things like bad decisions on par-5s, being too aggressive or choosing the wrong lines.
The Masters’ permanent venue means players can also learn a lot by watching golf greats like Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler.
He notes that Augusta National “can give a little but take away a lot,” so patience and accepting mistakes are critical.
He describes Amen Corner as one of the most special places in golf, one that garners huge respect and carries great emotional weight.
“It’s probably one of the most special places in golf,” he said.
It has decided many tournaments and is unique as a three-hole stretch that players think of almost as its own chapter.
He looks back on his own play there and sees that as part of his Masters story.
10:47 a.m.: Family time is important to Cameron Young
Cameron Young was asked about his personal and family life during a news conference Tuesday at Augusta National Golf Club.
What does he like to do when he has time off?
“Most of it just revolves around my family and my kids,” he said.
He said he’s busy all through the year, so when he has some time off like he did in the past three weeks, he has some family time.
He said he took his 3- and 4-year-old sons out to hit some balls, which is important to him.
The family’s faith and religious life are important to them.
“I feel like it’s something that brings us together,” he said.
“It’s a nice opportunity for us to be together ... to share something together,” he said.
Wherever they are, they find a church for Mass, he said.
“I’m really happy to be able to bring attention to that part of our life,” he said.
10:13 a.m.: Rahm hopes Tiger, ‘king of comebacks,’ can recover
2023 Masters Champion Jon Rahm joined the chorus of colleagues voicing support for Tiger Woods and hoping he’ll come back stronger than ever.
“There’s a lot of players in this field who were very close to him,” Rahm said at a news conference Tuesday morning.
“I haven’t talked to them, and I don’t know if this is the week to do so,” he said.
“All I can hope is that he gets the help that he can get and that he can come back in a better condition,” Rahm said.
“After all, he is the king of comebacks.”
Woods is absent from this year’s Masters after his March 27 arrest on suspicion of driving under the influence.
Authorities found two painkiller pills in his pocket, and Woods was arrested and briefly jailed for refusing to submit to a urine test.
He’s said he’s stepping back from golf and is checking into a recovery facility abroad.
9:55 a.m.: Here’s a look at this year’s Masters gnome
As always, the Masters gnome is a hot commodity at Augusta National Golf Club.
The gnome is a perennial favorite, popular since being introduced in 2016.
Each year’s gnome is unique, and this year’s gnome comes complete with a miniature Masters umbrella.
8:58 a.m.: A lot has changed in the past year
Golf is a game of timing, and some of the patrons who are here this week got rained out last year.
And for some of those patrons who came back on a rain check, a lot may have happened in the past year.
Take, for example, several expectant mothers we spoke to.
Their lives have certainly changed since that rainy week last April.
7:58 a.m.: Will a Masters debut turn into a win?
First-time participants almost never win the Masters.
Then again, they rarely show up with a resume like Chris Gotterup’s.
The 26-year-old Gotterup already has four PGA Tour wins.
He’ll be the third player since World War II to make his Masters debut with that many.
He’s already won twice this year and joins Ben Griffin and Jacob Bridgeman as the highest-ranked first-timers this week.
Not since Fuzzy Zoeller in 1979 has a Masters rookie won the tournament, and before that nobody had won his debut since Gene Sarazen in the second year of the event.
7:49 a.m.: With 3 runner-up finishes, Justin Rose is optimistic
Justin Rose is the eternal optimist when it comes to the Masters.
Never mind that he is in the Augusta National record book as the only player to twice lose a playoff without ever having won the green jacket.
Or that his name is on the Masters trophy three times, but only because the club mentions the runner-up.
The 45-year-old isn’t worried about his age.
He already won this year at Torrey Pines.
He says Augusta National is a happy place where he feels comfortable. And he looks forward to having another chance to win there.
- Justin Rose seeks redemption in 21st Masters appearance
- Capsules of notable players at Augusta National
7:38 a.m.: We’ll hear from these players today
We’ll hear from some big names today during news conferences with several players at Augusta National.
Here’s the schedule:
- 9:30 a.m. Tommy Fleetwood
- 10 a.m. Jon Rahm
- 10:30 a.m. Cameron Young
- 11 a.m. Matt Fitzpatrick
- 1 p.m. Rory McIlroy
- 2 p.m. Gary Woodland
- 2:30 p.m. Bryson DeChambeau
- 3 p.m. Scottie Scheffler
We’ll also be posting details from interviews with other players as they come in from their practice round today.
We’ll be updating this blog as the news conferences and interviews happen, so check back.
7:30 a.m.: Expect a cool morning and a warm afternoon
Beautiful golf weather continues today.
Expect a pleasant day with plenty of sunshine breaking through morning clouds. Don’t let the cool conditions now fool you — afternoon highs will climb into the mid-70s, perfect for being outdoors.
Bring a light jacket for the morning, but you’ll shed it by afternoon. Northeast winds at 8-13 mph with gusts up to 20-25 mph may affect lighter items, so secure your hats and programs.
7:27 a.m.: Traffic is close to normal now
With Augusta National parking lots now open for about 25 minutes, traffic on Riverwatch is close to normal.
You might encounter some slowdowns on Washington Road, but the morning golf rush has subsided for the time being.
The Georgia Department of Transportation shows traffic on Interstate 20 moving normally.
6:55 a.m.: Allow extra time for traffic
Traffic isn’t as heavy this morning as it was yesterday.
Lots open at 7 a.m., and traffic was backed up a bit on I-20 at the Riverwatch and Washington Road exits. Riverwatch is busy, and Washington Road is a parking lot.
Allow extra time.
APRIL 6, 2026
6:55 p.m.: McIlroy, Scheffler take practice rounds
Defending champion Rory McIlroy teed off late this afternoon on the first nine. McIlroy played a round Sunday with his father.
The Northern Irishman is looking to become the first back-to-back Masters winner since Tiger Woods in 2001 and 2002. It has been 23 years since a golfer successfully defended the title.
World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler was also on the course during Monday’s practice round. Scheffler has not played a competitive tournament in a month.
The two-time Masters champion has finished inside the top 10 in each of his previous four starts at Augusta National. Scheffler has not won since the American Express in January.
If Scheffler claims a third green jacket, he would become the fourth player to win three times in five years.
6:50 p.m.: Patrons soak in Masters traditions on practice day
For the patrons streaming through the gates at Augusta National, the experience is about more than watching golf.
“I’ve been wanting to do this since I was a little kid,” said Scott Jones, who teared up walking the course for the first time. “I cried. I teared up a little bit.”
The 90th Masters brings the tournament’s traditions into sharp focus. The hand-operated leaderboard towers over the 18th green. Azaleas line the fairways. And patrons walk the same ground where golf legends made their mark.
“If I pass away, they can bury me here,” said Dominick Chiesa, taking in Amen Corner.
In a world consumed by phones and technology, Augusta National offers something different. Anthony Valverde said the disconnection is part of the appeal.
“I love how time slows down when you’re here,” Valverde said. “I think that’s one of the greatest parts is being disconnected and being just with nature and the best place in the world. It’s pretty special to be here and I don’t take any bit of it for granted — any second that I’m here.”
6:30 p.m.: Masters broadcast marks 70 years
In the age of high-tech cameras, lasers and lidar tracking, broadcasting golf has come a long way.
For this 90th installment of the Masters Tournament, organizers are marking a major milestone in the history of broadcast.
This week marks 70 years since the first Masters television broadcast.
Sixty years ago, the Masters Tournament became the first golf broadcast in color.
In 2016, the tournament was broadcast in 4K for the first time.
In 2018, shot tracer technology was used for the first time on CBS broadcasts, but only for a handful of holes.
The next year, the technology was added to every hole, using more than 100 cameras to make it work.
5:22 p.m.: What players are saying about Tiger Woods
Tiger Woods is a topic of conversation at the Masters without even being here.
Jason Day is among players who wish the best for his recovery after an arrest on suspicion of driving under the influence of medications.
But Day also says it was selfish of Woods to be driving.
It follows Nick Faldo saying it’s time Woods is held accountable.
Also discussing Woods today at the Masters were Harris English, Bubba Watson, Jacob Bridgeman and Patrick Reed.
Woods has pleaded not guilty to the charge from the March 27 accident.
He also was granted a motion to seek treatment outside the country.
Day and other golfers at the Masters say they hope Woods comes out of this better.
4:14 p.m.: For Reed, ‘something so special about this place’
No matter how many times he’s been at Augusta National, 2018 Masters champion Patrick Reed still gets emotional.
“There’s just something so special about this place, the traditions behind it, and then on top of it, it’s the one major that stays in the same place,” he told reporters today.
“All the way back from when I played my first time ever here, even when we played in November that one year, and any time I’ve come back and played it, it’s always in perfect shape. It’s one of those golf courses that you can’t hit just one golf shot; you have to play golf kind of old-school way. You have to hit shots, different shapes, different flights and everything.”
And it consumes your attention.
“Anytime I come out here, it’s just kind of one of those things that you put your head down,” he said. “The stresses over every single golf shot you have here at Augusta, it’s one of those places that you’re not really thinking about what’s going on outside and everything else. You’re trying to grind every little moment that you are inside the ropes when you’re out there on the golf course playing.”
He agrees with the assessment that this year’s Masters field is pretty wide open.
“I feel like it used to be five or six, maybe seven guys. Now, I definitely feel like this year you have 10 to 12 guys who have a really legitimate opportunity to win the green jacket,” he said.
“It just makes this event a little bit more special and even more fun going out there and playing against the best.”
He’s excited to return to the PGA Tour.
“It’s one of those that was a family decision, and really at the end of the day, I really enjoyed all my time over there at LIV. It was a blast. Those guys are fun to be around, fun to play with. Especially there on the 4Aces. I still pull for them. I saw D.J. the other day. We’re always making sure that those guys are doing what they’re supposed to do because really you want the best of golf all around the world no matter what,” he said.
“For me, I felt like this was the best place for me.”
What about his legacy?
“I think we’re always thinking about our legacy. We always go out there and try to improve, not just on the golf course, but as a person and outside the golf course,” he said.
“I obviously want to be known as a player that’s just not a guy that plays at one spot. I’ve always wanted to be a worldwide player, play around the world, play on all the tours. To have that opportunity to come back and spend time with the family, at this point of my career I obviously want to go out and play as many golf tournaments as I can and hopefully still shoot to win all the majors.
“Really I want to be known more for what I do off the course, for the stuff at home, the father that I am, the husband I am, rather than just the golfer. Everybody knows I can play golf.”
3:40 p.m.: From player to patron for a day
Xander Schauffele has been to a few Masters as a player, but a reporter asked him today what he’d do if he was a patron − if he had just one day.
“I feel like I would try it all, to be honest. If I’m on the grounds, I’d probably drink everything, try everything. Definitely get the peach ice cream sandwich, all the sandwiches they have to offer,” he said.
Although it’s popular to combine the sandwiches, he said maybe not because the course is a “sneaky hike.”
What else on his day as a patron?
“Yeah, probably blow up the merchandise shop, too, just get everything in there.”
Viktor Hovland was asked the same question.
“I’d try to walk with a group, but I guess that gets pretty difficult if it’s a pretty notable group. I’d want to see multiple different spots.
“I think 16 green is a pretty nice spot because you can see some on 6 green. You’ve got 15, so you’re kind of in a good spot there. I’d hang around there for sure. And probably around Amen Corner a little bit if you can fit, watch 11 and obviously the approach shot on 12 and some tee shots on 13. But try to walk around.”
What about Akshay Bhatia?
“I think it’s hard not to go to the merch tent. It’s memories for life for your first Masters coming as a patron. I’d buy a bunch of stuff. Yeah, you have to try everything. They do an amazing job with the food here. I eat a pimento cheese sandwich every day after my round. I’m a pimento guy. The ice cream sandwiches are unbelievable. That’s something I get after every round,” he said.
“You can’t go wrong with this place. Everything is just top tier.”
Does he ever try putting the pimento on anything else?
“No, I stick to that,” he said.
3:15 p.m.: With injury, Morikawa ‘taking it day by day’
Collin Morikawa pulled out of the Valero Texas Open because of his back injury, but he’s here in Augusta to play in the Masters.
Is he good to go?
“The honest truth is I’m taking it day by day,” he told reporters today. “It’s not exactly where I want to be, and it’s unfortunate, but that’s just the body, and I can’t push it. It’s been a little bit of a mental battle, I think, just trying to trust with where it’s at. The back actually feels fine. It’s just other parts of the body not cooperating a little bit how I want.”
Despite withdrawing from the Texas Open, he was able to hit balls and continue to play, he said.
“But there’s a comfort level, and this isn’t a place where you want to be uncomfortable, but sometimes you’ve got to find other ways to get around a golf course,” he said.
“So I’m kind of, you know, making a different game plan than I think I’ve come up with in the past.”
How does that work?
“Some shots that you might be able to hit in the past, you might not be able to hit right now. But yeah, it’s a work in progress. But each day just staying positive, trying to get through it,” he said.
The situation has been frustrating, he admits.
“At the same time, I can’t do anything stupid and push my body in a way it doesn’t want to do,” he said.
2:52 p.m.: ‘We all make mistakes,’ Day says of Woods
Jason Day has some empathy for Tiger Woods, but also some firm words.
Woods, a five-time Masters champion, decided to step back from golf for a while after being arrested in Florida on a DUI charge.
Authorities believe he was under the influence of prescription painkillers.
While Woods is out of the spotlight, he’s going abroad for inpatient treatment.
“In regards to Tiger, it just shows the human element and the human side of someone that is struggling with some sort of an addiction. He’s not immune to it just because he can hit a golf ball really well. He’s had 25 to 30 something surgeries, and when you’re going through that many procedures, it’s painful coming out of those procedures. I’ve had procedures done and I typically try and stay away from all that stuff because I just know that − painkillers, there can potentially be a downfall to it,” he said.
“Granted, when I look at that, I look at it and go, ‘He’s just a human being like everyone else, and we have struggles.’ It’s unfortunate, the only thing that I don’t understand is that it’s a little bit selfish of him to drive and put other people in harm’s way, as well,” Day said.
For Day, Woods was always an inspiration.
“He was my hero − he’s my hero. He was my hero growing up. The reason why I play golf is because of this tournament and Tiger. It’s hard to see him go through what he’s going through, and especially under the microscope that − it must be hard to be who he is and have everything, everyone look on, kind of down on him,” Day said.
“Some people want him to fail. Some people obviously want him to succeed. It’s really difficult for me to go through that and watch him, and I know that he’s getting the help now, which is good. I’m just hoping he comes out on the other side and is better.”
Day says the biggest priority is to show support for Woods.
“He stays at home pretty much most of the time, doesn’t really get out too much just because of how popular he is as a person, and then when you’re at home, it’s just difficult. Sometimes you don’t have people around, loving people around enough to be able to steer you in the direction that you need to,” Day said.
“Like I said before, he’s human, and we all make mistakes. That’s just part of learning and getting better, and I’m hoping that he gets the help that he needs and that he comes out stronger and better on the other side because, like golf misses him. We miss him here this week.”
2:27 p.m.: Bubba Watson is pulling for Tiger to come back stronger
Bubba Watson has some advice for first-timers at the Masters:
“Just enjoy it. If you get lucky, and I’m being honest, if you get lucky enough to win this place, more than likely it’s going to be later. It won’t be the first time. There’s very few that’s won it the first time. But talent can take over and anybody can win because they’re good enough to get here, they’re good enough to win. Just enjoy it,” he told reporters today
“You want your first one to be, just enjoy it, take it all in, try to learn some things and get ready for the next time you come around here.”
He also has advice for someone who’s not a newcomer: Tiger Woods.
“I told him from day one that we started hanging out back in ′06, ′07, somewhere in there, that I’m pulling for him as a human being. Forget his golf, I could care less about his golf,“ Watson told reporters today.
“Anybody that’s struggling with anything, I feel for him because I’ve went through a lot of mental stuff. So yeah, I always pull for him ... Nothing but love for him, and hopefully he can come back stronger.”
2:20 p.m.: There’s always ‘a little surprise,’ for Sergio Garcia
Sergio Garcia says there’s always something different at Augusta National, no matter how many times you come.
“There’s always, like, a little surprise when you come here,” he told reporters today. “Seems like every year there’s something either new on the course or on the grounds or something like that, practice area, something like that. They always have a little treat for us, I guess.”
2:14 p.m.: This course ‘has a lot of teeth’ for Olazábal
José María Olazábal is glad to be back at Augusta National.
“The feelings are great. Every time I come here, this is a very special place for me, for my heart. I have wonderful memories. This place has given me so much in my career for major events. It’s always fantastic to be back here,” he said Monday.
It’s not easy, though.
“The more you play this golf course, the better it is,” he said. “We’ve always said this golf course nowadays demands a whole game. You need to be long and straight off the tee. You have to be sharp with your irons, and on top of that, your short game has to be really good. Knowing the contours of the greens and all that obviously helps you around the greens, and when you play it, I don’t know, 37 times or 38 times over years, you get to know the course a little better.”
How does he view the competition?
“Every player playing this week has earned the right to be here. They play great golf. Obviously we do have the usual suspects to be up there on top. But it’s a golf course that has a lot of teeth, and you never know,” he said.
“But I expect the top players to do well here this week.”
1:55 p.m.: Player Services Building gets raves
Cameron Smith is excited about the new Player Services Building at Augusta National Golf Club.
“I mean, it’s world class, just like what we’ve come to expect of Augusta National,“ he said. ”We wouldn’t have thought it would be anything different. It’s pretty spectacular. The locker room is great. The dining room is great. The gym is great. There’s no flaws. Everyone is really happy with it.”
His favorite part is the new locker room.
“The locker room upstairs here in the clubhouse is great, and it’s got its history and stuff, but it wasn’t very big,” he said. “I think everyone is really pumped about the space that we’ve got.”
“Just a little bit more space and a place where you can hang out with them. It kind of felt like it was a little bit maybe disjointed in years past,” he said.
1:19 p.m.: Fashion statement of the Day
Sometimes controversial but always memorable, Jason Day is out on the course today in a vest with bird prints on it.
With a nod to the home of Augusta National, the print features the birds of Georgia.
Day was actually supposed to wear matching pants, but Augusta National nixed that idea.
It’s not the first time Day’s fashion plans have gone a step too far for Augusta National.
In 2024, he was asked to remove a vest with bold letters across the belly reading, “Malbon Golf Championship.”
“It looks like he’s wearing a billboard,” one patron quipped while watching from the shade.
12:24 p.m.: Airport’s activity soars in tournament week
People flying in and out of Augusta Regional Airport will notice some changes this week.
Delta Air Lines created a welcome sign made entirely of flowers. The airport’s arts program will also be playing live music in the gate area as people arrive.
And it comes in a week when there are extra passengers. As airlines have added capacity as well as nonstop flights between Augusta and major cities not usually served during the rest of the year.
In just one week, airport leaders say they can see the kind of flight activity they would normally handle in a month.
It even requires one runway to be shut down and converted into parking for the up to 200 planes that can be on the ground at any moment.
12:02 p.m.: Key things for drivers to know
Traffic changes are in effect during Masters Tournament week, with restrictions focused on the Washington Road corridor near Augusta National Golf Club.
The intersection of Washington Road at Alexander Drive and Berckmans Road is where most of the city’s traffic changes are being seen.
I-20: The city closes the northbound off-ramp to Washington Road on Interstate 20 at 7 a.m. each morning during tournament week. The exit reopens later in the day for vehicles.
Turn lanes: One left turn lane is closed for cars trying to turn onto Washington Road from Berckmans Road and Alexander Drive. All left turns from Washington Road onto Berckmans Road remain blocked. Alexander Drive could close if traffic becomes too congested.
Parking/rideshare: A Publix parking lot near the intersection is being used by patrons. A rideshare lot is also available at that location for those using Uber or Lyft to get to and from the course.
Navigation tips: Patrons can use the Masters app or website for directions. Radio stations are providing parking and traffic updates. Patrons should not type “Augusta National” into GPS devices, as it will direct them to Magnolia Lane, which is too far from parking areas.
At the airport: Augusta Regional Airport has new parking rules in effect during Masters Tournament week. Taxis, limousines, hotel shuttles and hospitality vehicles cannot park curbside during tournament week. Those vehicles must park in the parking lots. Public parking costs $2 per entry for the first hour. Vehicles parked in prohibited areas may be towed.
11:41 a.m.: Sun brings out the smiles on ‘giddy and excited’ patrons
Patrons stepped onto the grounds of Augusta National Golf Club this morning for the 90th Masters week − and they’re all smiles.
The tournament showcases the world’s best golfers, pristine greens and blooming azaleas.
The weather is different from last year’s Masters Monday.
Rain last year led Augusta National to give all affected patrons the chance to return this year.
This time, the sun is shining and the azaleas are in full bloom.
“Everything I read on the internet, it’s like you don’t get to come back if there’s like a rain delay. But we were here for five minutes. I think the next morning I sent everyone a text like we get to come back? Yes,” patron Michael Day said.
Patron Seth Draper said he only got to see a few holes last year.
“We only got to see a few holes and a couple guys were out hitting. So we’ll get the full genuine experience this year,” Draper said.
Patron Wally Higgenbotham said he was excited about the forecast.
“We were watching the weather forecast this morning. We were getting all giddy and excited about it,” Higgenbotham said.
10:31 a.m.: ‘13th month’ has arrived for Augusta businesses
Some Augusta businesses call Masters week the 13th month of the year — when tourists flood the city and spending triples.
“Last year’s spending was over $32 million just in hotel motel revenue. So you can just imagine what kind of an impact that has when you add in food and drink, you add in shopping,” said Karen Davis, chief marketing officer at Destination Augusta.
“It’s a great boost to our local economy. It’s a great boost of visitor spending. And it has a huge impact on local businesses,” Davis said.
10:11 a.m.: Photo gallery − Masters Monday at Augusta National
10 a.m.: Mowing report from Augusta National
Here’s the height of the cut of grass on the golf course:
- Tees: 5/16 inch
- Fairways: 3/8 inch
- Second cut: 1 3/8 inches
- Collars: 1/4 inch
- Greens surrounds: 5/16 inch
- Greens: 1/8 inch
All mowing is subject to weather conditions and growth.
9:17 a.m.: After ‘365 days of waiting,’ dad and son are back
Some patrons are back this year after getting rained out last year.
Among them are Jeff Eiden and his dad, Berry.
After they got rained out, “we just headed back home and just started thinking about next year,” Jeff Eiden said.
They were glad Augusta National Golf Club made the return possible.
“I’m here with my dad, my brother-in-law. He was the one who won the lottery to get the tickets. And then one of his good friends from law school,” Jeff Eiden said.
“Everybody’s first-and-a-half time.”
This year came after “365 days of waiting,” his dad said.
It’s beautiful and we just are so happy to be here. You’re just telling everybody, ‘Ohh, I was at the Masters and I’m going again next year,’” he said.
“Then I tell them that I was only there for 2½ hours, but it all worked out great.”
8:32 a.m.: Who was the first player to shoot 63 at the Masters?
- Johnny Miller
- Nick Price
- Ralph Guldahl
Answer: Nick Price
8:09 a.m.: We’ll hear from several players today
With most everyone here today, we’ll be hearing from several players this afternoon.
We’ll be live-blogging the news conferences as they happen, so watch here for coverage.
Here’s today’s schedule:
- 2 p.m.: Chris Gotterup
- 2:30 p.m.: Patrick Reed
- 3:30 p.m.: Justin Rose
- 4 p.m.: Fifa Laopakdee and Mateo Pulcini
7:52 a.m.: Scheffler shows up with newborn son
Many of the Masters competitors were in town yesterday, getting in some practice.
Among them was two-time champion Scottie Scheffler, who brought his less than 2-week-old son, Remy.
Scheffler, who tends to keep his golf separate from his home life, had not shared any information since withdrawing from the Houston Open two weeks ago because of the impending birth of his second child. He said wife Meredith gave birth to a boy on March 27. They named him Remy.
There he was, in a stroller Meredith was pushing under the famous oak tree by the clubhouse, 9 days old and already at his first Masters.
- Scheffler arrives with 9-day-old son and a game he hopes is ready
- Players showing up at Augusta National for Masters 2026 practice
7:40 a.m.: Cameras are allowed today
If you’re going to the practice rounds today through Wednesday, you can take your camera − not a phone but a real camera.
Cameras are allowed on practice days, but not when the tournament begins.
7:32 a.m.: Weather should be beautiful all week
A cold front that moved through the area will bring cooler temperatures and clearing skies today, but the extended forecast is shaping up to be ideal for Masters week.
Dry weather returns today and will persist through Tuesday’s practice rounds and Wednesday’s Par 3 Day.
Conditions are expected to remain dry throughout the entire tournament weekend.
7:20 a.m.: A look at the traffic situation
Masters week has arrived, and the players are in town to practice ahead of the start of the tournament Thursday.
Traffic isn’t too bad at the moment. Eastbound Interstate 20’s Exit 199, Washington Road, is now closed, with all traffic routed to Riverwatch Parkway. There’s about a mile backup to get off at Riverwatch, so allow extra time.
Southbound Alexander Drive from Riverwatch is moving well, with officers directing traffic at Washington Road.
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