Masters Tournament Begins Without Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson for First Time in 32 Years

Historic Absence Marks New Era at Augusta

The 2026 Masters Tournament tees off today at Augusta National Golf Club, marking the first time in 32 years that neither Tiger Woods nor Phil Mickelson will compete in the major tournament . Tiger Woods debuted in 1995, while Phil Mickelson skipped the 1994 Masters because of a skiing injury , making this absence particularly significant for golf fans worldwide.

Tiger Woods has taken a break not only from golf but also from the media following his DUI arrest on March 27, 2026. "I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health," Woods said in a statement . Meanwhile, Phil Mickelson announced his absence on April 1, 2026, via social media , citing an ongoing family personal health matter that requires an extended break .

Winners of eight combined green jackets, Woods and Mickelson are each in the rare group of players who've won this tournament three times . Their absence represents more than just missing competitors—it signals the end of an era that defined professional golf for nearly three decades.

Championship Contenders Take Center Stage

Scottie Scheffler (+550), Jon Rahm (+1000), Bryson DeChambeau (+1000) and Rory McIlroy (+1300) are among the favorites to finish on top of the leaderboard . McIlroy is seeking to become just the fourth golfer to win back-to-back Masters titles after his emotional victory last year that completed his career Grand Slam.

McIlroy ended his 11-year wait for an elusive fifth major title with a 'roller-coaster' victory at Augusta National, where he squandered a four-shot lead on his back nine before defeating Justin Rose in a play-off . Now defending champion, McIlroy described the past 12 months as "amazing" and said he has "tried to embrace and enjoy every part of life" as a Masters champion .

Scheffler would become only the ninth golfer to win three jackets or more if he captures this year's title. Despite recent struggles with his driver, he's 101-under par in his major championship career, the best all time, including 111 under since 2020—45 strokes better than any other player during that span .

Tournament Traditions Continue

The 2026 Masters will feature a familiar trio of golf legends as honorary starters - Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, and Tom Watson . The honorary starters will hit the first shots of the tournament at 7:25 a.m. ET on Thursday, April 9th, before the first group tees off at 7:50 a.m. ET .

The tournament maintains its cherished traditions despite the notable absences. 33 of the 35 living past Masters champions were in attendance for reigning-champion Rory McIlroy's dinner at Augusta National Golf Club . "Unfortunately, there will be a couple of guys that won't be in that room, which is a shame, but I want to make sure that they're acknowledged as well," McIlroy said. "They've been two of the greatest champions that the Masters has ever seen" .

The 91-player field for the 2026 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club has been finalized , featuring past champions, recent major winners, and top-ranked players ready to compete for golf's most coveted prize.

Looking Ahead

While the absence of Woods and Mickelson marks a symbolic changing of the guard, the Masters remains golf's premier championship. The absence of Woods and Mickelson marks the end of an era for many fans, but the Masters remains bigger than any one player. The traditions, the course, and the competition continue to define the event .

The 90th edition of this storied tournament promises compelling storylines as a new generation of stars vies for the green jacket. With defending champion McIlroy seeking history and world No. 1 Scheffler aiming for his third title, the 2026 Masters may well establish the next chapter in golf's greatest championship, even as it bids farewell to two of its most iconic figures.