The 89th Masters Tournament is almost upon us. The central question looms: Can anyone dethrone Scottie Scheffler? Which golfers from the LIV circuit are poised to contend for the coveted green jacket this week? Are there any Masters debutants who warrant close attention?
From prominent players to fresh faces and potential dark horses, here are five key storylines to follow this week at Augusta National.
Spotlight on the Top Contenders
Mark Schlabach: The primary focus will undoubtedly be on the world`s top two ranked golfers: Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy. A Sunday showdown between Scheffler and McIlroy at Augusta National would be a captivating narrative for a sport grappling with financial and political divisions in recent years.
Scheffler has maintained his position as the dominant force in men`s golf for a significant portion of the last three years. He is aiming to join the ranks of Jack Nicklaus as the only golfers to secure three Masters victories within a four-year period. Additionally, he could become only the fourth golfer in history to win consecutive green jackets, following Nicklaus, Nick Faldo, and Tiger Woods.
Despite missing the initial month of the season due to a right-hand injury and not yet securing a win in 2025, Scheffler`s Augusta National prowess is undeniable. Conversely, McIlroy has two tour victories this season and is exhibiting exceptional form as he seeks his first green jacket in his 11th attempt to complete a career Grand Slam, which would also break his decade-long major championship drought.
Paolo Uggetti: The discourse surrounding Scheffler and McIlroy at the outset of this season is justified, but the allure of the first major of the year lies in the uncertainties. This draws my attention to two LIV Golf players who should be considered among the favorites: Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau.
Rahm is a past Masters champion, and DeChambeau is fresh off a U.S. Open victory last year and two additional top-6 major finishes. However, after three years of LIV Golf, assessing the translation of player performance from LIV to major championships remains complex. DeChambeau demonstrated his major competitiveness last year, but his last LIV win was in September 2023. This week at Augusta, DeChambeau`s every move will be closely watched, as will Rahm, whose LIV performance has been consistently strong, although his sole non-LIV event in January saw him miss the cut.
Rookies to Keep an Eye On
Schlabach: Thomas Detry, a former collegiate standout, is a compelling first-timer. His recent PGA Tour victory at the WM Phoenix Open showcased his talent. While Detry`s putting is a strength, his iron play has been inconsistent, and his fairway accuracy at Augusta National remains a question mark.
Aaron Rai is another noteworthy debutant with recent major success. Rai`s statistical rankings in key strokes gained categories are impressive, and he enters the Masters in good form.
Uggetti: Maverick McNealy`s journey to the Masters culminates after seven years. His recent victory at the RSM Classic and strong tour form, highlighted by multiple top-10 finishes, suggest he`s ready for this stage. McNealy`s putting and approach game should serve him well at Augusta, and if his driving and short game are sharp, he could be a factor.
Course Conditions and Impact
Schlabach: The course was playing firm and fast leading up to the tournament, but recent rainfall has softened conditions. Augusta National`s SubAir system is likely working to restore optimal green conditions. Weather forecasts predict favorable conditions for the week, with minimal rain expected after Friday morning.
Hurricane Helene`s impact from last year is still evident. Tree loss, particularly on the first and ninth holes, is noticeable, primarily affecting the visual landscape for returning patrons, though strategic implications for players are minimal. The 16th green required reconstruction due to tree damage, and greens on the first, eighth, and 15th holes were also renovated.
Uggetti: Xander Schauffele noted the altered landscape due to tree removal, particularly around the 16th hole, making the back nine feel almost unfamiliar. While some aiming points are gone, Schauffele anticipates minimal change in overall course playability. McIlroy echoed this sentiment, noting a slightly less visually intimidating tee shot experience on certain holes due to removed overhanging trees, but otherwise, the course`s character remains largely unchanged.
LIV Golfers` Performance Expectations
Schlabach: With a dozen LIV players in the field, it`s plausible that a few could finish within the top 10. However, predicting specific names is challenging given the inconsistent performances of prominent LIV players in 2025. DeChambeau and Rahm, while showing flashes of brilliance, have not consistently dominated. Cameron Smith and Patrick Reed, with their Augusta track records, remain contenders for top-10 finishes.
Uggetti: LIV performance is difficult to project onto major championships. While players like Brooks Koepka haven`t been prominent this year, their major championship pedigree suggests they could contend at Augusta. Joaquín Niemann stands out as a LIV player to watch. His recent form, including multiple LIV wins and high world ranking, makes him a compelling contender, despite his relatively modest major championship record.
Under-the-Radar Story to Watch
Schlabach: Russell Henley, currently ranked No. 7 in the world, is surprisingly under the radar. His recent victory at the Arnold Palmer Invitational and consistent top-10 finishes highlight his strong season. Henley`s accuracy and approach play, combined with his putting, make him well-suited for Augusta. His past major performances, including a fourth-place finish at the 2023 Masters, suggest he could be a serious contender.
Uggetti: Collin Morikawa, despite being ranked No. 4 globally, is also flying under the radar. His improved putting and strong approach play position him well. Morikawa`s near-win at the Arnold Palmer Invitational and past major successes indicate he could be in contention on Sunday. For a longer shot, Akshay Bhatia is worth watching. His talent is undeniable, and if his putting clicks, he could have a strong Masters debut.
Jasper Hawthorne