With world No1 Scottie Scheffler and defending champion Rory McIlroy not in top form, the 2026 Masters is wide open. Scheffler's recent arrival of his second child and McIlroy's back issues have raised questions about their chances of retaining their titles.
However, other players are stepping up to the plate. Bryson DeChambeau, the Crushers GC Captain, has been in great form with back-to-back wins in LIV Golf events. His raw power and dependent short game make him a good fit for Augusta National.
Matt Fitzpatrick, a 12-time starter at Augusta National, is also in top form after a lean phase. His exceptional chipping skills will be a huge advantage this week.
Cameron Young, the world No3, has shown up at major championships with impressive results, including six top-10s in majors. Patrick Reed, the 2018 Masters champion, has a terrific record at Augusta National and has been in great form.
Akshay Bhatia, the world No21 Indian-American, is also a contender. He recently won the Arnold Palmer Invitational and has a phenomenal short game, which Augusta National favours.
