Masters 2026 Leaderboard Shakes Up As Final Round Nears
Masters 2026 Leaderboard Shakes Up As Final Round Nears...
The 2026 Masters Tournament is delivering high drama as the leaderboard tightens heading into Sunday's final round at Augusta National. Golf fans across the U.S. are tracking the action closely, with several top contenders separated by just a few strokes.
Scottie Scheffler, the 2022 and 2024 Masters champion, holds a one-shot lead at 10-under par after a rollercoaster third round that included an eagle on the 13th. Close behind is rising star Michael Thorbjornsen at 9-under, while Rory McIlroy lurks three strokes back in his latest bid to complete the career Grand Slam.
This year's tournament has drawn extra attention due to Tiger Woods' surprising contention early in the week. The 50-year-old legend made the cut but faded to T-22 after a tough Saturday. His presence has boosted TV ratings and social media buzz throughout the weekend.
Weather could play a major factor in Sunday's finale, with thunderstorms forecast for late afternoon. Tournament officials have moved tee times up by two hours to avoid potential disruptions. The earlier start means CBS's broadcast will begin at 9 a.m. ET rather than the traditional 11 a.m. slot.
Augusta National's famed Amen Corner (holes 11-13) proved decisive Saturday, with several contenders gaining or losing multiple strokes through the treacherous stretch. The par-5 13th yielded 32 birdies and two eagles during the third round, keeping the competition wide open.
Sportsbooks report heavy betting action on Scheffler as the favorite, but oddsmakers note significant money coming in on Thorbjornsen at +350. The 24-year-old Stanford graduate is attempting to become the first amateur-turned-pro to win the Masters since Phil Mickelson in 2004.
Corporate hospitality tents are packed despite ticket prices reaching $3,500 on secondary markets. The Masters remains the toughest ticket in sports, with the waiting list for tournament badges closed since 2000.
Sunday's winner will take home $3.6 million from the record $20 million purse, along with the iconic green jacket. With so many storylines in play and the weather uncertainty, golf fans are guaranteed a memorable conclusion to this year's tournament.
