Masters 2026 Tee Times: When Thursday's First Round Begins

Masters 2026 Tee Times: When Thursdays First Round Begins...

The 2026 Masters Tournament begins Thursday morning at Augusta National Golf Club, with tee times starting at 8:00 AM ET. Golf fans across the U.S. are searching for start times as the year's first major championship kicks off under clear Georgia skies.

Defending champion Scottie Scheffler headlines the field, teeing off at 10:42 AM ET alongside Rory McIlroy and rising star Tom Kim. Tiger Woods begins his quest for a sixth green jacket at 1:24 PM ET, drawing particular attention after his limited tournament schedule this season.

Morning groups will face cooler temperatures in the mid-60s, while afternoon players contend with highs near 80°F. ESPN will broadcast early coverage starting at 8:00 AM ET, with CBS taking over at 3:00 PM ET.

The tournament's timing coincides with peak spring break travel for many Americans, boosting interest in viewing schedules. Augusta National's strict no-phone policy also drives fans to plan their viewing around broadcast windows rather than mobile updates.

This year's Masters features several notable first-timers including NCAA champion Nick Dunlap, who tees off at 8:33 AM ET. The field of 89 players will compete for a record $18 million purse, with the winner taking home $3.24 million.

Weather forecasts show minimal chance of rain through Sunday, unlike last year's rain-delayed tournament. Tournament chairman Fred Ridley confirmed the course is in "perfect condition" during Wednesday's press conference.

Fans without cable can stream the action through Paramount+, ESPN+, or the Masters app. The tournament's global appeal has made start time searches spike internationally, particularly in the UK where coverage begins at 1:00 PM GMT.

Augusta National's gates open at 7:00 AM ET Thursday, with patrons already lining up overnight for prime viewing spots. The club expects near-capacity crowds after slightly expanding ticket allocations this year.