Masters 2026: First Round Live

Rory McIlroy begins his defence of the Masters title today at Augusta National, paired in the opening group with Players Champion Cameron Young and amateur Mason Howell. McIlroy returns aiming to protect the green jacket he claimed last year, Young brings strong recent form from TPC Sawgrass, and Howell’s amateur appearance adds an intriguing subplot to the early action.

Several big names are expected to press for the title as play gets under way: Scottie Scheffler, Bryson DeChambeau and Xander Schauffele are among the leading challengers looking to contend over the famous holes, undulating greens and tight fairways of Augusta. With a mix of established stars and rising talents in the field, the leaderboard could shift quickly across the opening round.

Live coverage of the first round is available on Sky Sports Golf, with tee times, scoring updates and on-course reaction throughout the day. Thursday 9 April 2026 | 12:01 UK.