Masters Tee Times Released As Golf's Top Stars Prepare For Augusta
Masters Tee Times Released As Golfs Top Stars Prepare For Augusta...
The 2026 Masters Tournament tee times were announced Wednesday morning, setting the stage for golf's most prestigious event at Augusta National. With first-round play beginning Thursday, April 9, the pairings reveal has sparked intense discussion among fans and analysts.
Defending champion Scottie Scheffler will tee off at 10:42 AM ET alongside rising star Ludvig Ă…berg and 2021 winner Hideki Matsuyama. Tiger Woods, making his 28th Masters appearance, drew a marquee 1:24 PM ET Thursday slot with Jason Day and Max Homa.
The tee time announcement comes as ticket resale prices hit record highs, with Saturday badges selling for over $2,500. Augusta National's limited spectator policy and perfect spring weather forecasts have created unprecedented demand.
Thursday's early feature group includes Rory McIlroy, Viktor Hovland and Will Zalatoris at 9:48 AM ET. The trio represents three of the top five players in the current world rankings chasing their first green jacket.
Television coverage begins at 8:00 AM ET Thursday on ESPN, with streaming available through Masters.com and the official app. The tournament marks the first major championship broadcast under the PGA Tour's new $7 billion media rights deal.
Local businesses in Augusta, Georgia report hotels at 98% occupancy through Sunday. Restaurant reservations near the course have been booked for months, with waitlists stretching over 300 names at popular establishments like TBonz Steakhouse.
The tee sheet reveals several compelling storylines, including 20-year-old amateur Miles Russell becoming the youngest competitor since 2015. He'll play Thursday at 8:36 AM ET with past champions Zach Johnson and JosĂ© MarĂa Olazábal.
Weather forecasts show ideal conditions with highs near 78°F and light winds through the weekend. The dry forecast likely means faster greens and lower scores than last year's rain-softened course.
Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley confirmed Wednesday that the club has no plans to alter its traditional tee time start despite recent discussions about a potential shotgun start format. The decision preserves the Masters' morning anticipation as players begin their rounds at the first hole.
