Tournament Overview

The 2025 Masters Tournament marks the 89th edition of this historic major championship at Augusta National Golf Club. As the first major of the golf season, all eyes will be on whether Scottie Scheffler can secure his third green jacket in four years, cementing his status as the dominant force in modern golf.

Star-Studded Field

Leading the charge is world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, fresh off his 2024 victory where he showcased near-perfect ball-striking. His main challengers include:

• Rory McIlroy (chasing the career Grand Slam)
• Xander Schauffele (2023 PGA Champion)
• Jon Rahm (2023 Masters winner)
• Ludvig Åberg (rising Swedish star)
• Viktor Hovland (2024 FedEx Cup champion)

Complete Broadcast Schedule

Tuesday, April 8

• Noon-2 p.m. ET: Featured practice rounds (ESPN+)

Wednesday, April 9 (Par 3 Contest Day)

• 10 a.m.-Noon: Morning practice (ESPN+)
• Noon-4 p.m.: Par 3 Contest (ESPN+/Disney+)
• Main Broadcast Window: 2-4 p.m. (ESPN)

Tournament Rounds (Thursday-Sunday)

Featured Coverage Options:

• Amen Corner Live (Holes 11-13)
• Featured Groups (Top pairings)
• Key Hole Coverage (4-6 & 15-16)

Primary Broadcast Times:

• Thursday/Friday: 3-7:30 p.m. ET (ESPN)
• Weekend Coverage: CBS takes over afternoon slots

Breaking Tournament News

Key Updates:

• Vijay Singh withdraws due to back injury
• Carla Bernat Escuder claims Augusta National Women's Amateur title
• Scheffler's Champions Dinner menu features Texas favorites including chili and ribeye

Player Performance Preview

We've categorized all 96 competitors into tiers:

Tier 1 - Clear Favorites

1. Scottie Scheffler
2. Rory McIlroy
3. Jon Rahm

Tier 2 - Strong Contenders

• Xander Schauffele
• Viktor Hovland
• Patrick Cantlay

Tier 3 - Dark Horses

• Cameron Young
• Sam Burns
• Ludvig Åberg

Tier 4 - Veterans & Qualifiers

• Tiger Woods (potential final Masters)
• Fred Couples
• Various international qualifiers

Historical Context

Scheffler's 2024 victory established him as the game's premier player, reminiscent of Tiger Woods' early dominance. His 2025 campaign could see him join the exclusive club of 3-time Masters winners before age 30.

How to Enhance Your Viewing Experience

1. Download the ESPN App for featured group coverage
2. Multi-screen viewing with Amen Corner and featured holes
3. Follow @ESPNGolf for real-time updates
4. Check weather forecasts - Augusta spring conditions can change rapidly

The Augusta Effect

The course underwent significant updates following the 2024 tournament:

• Extended tee boxes on 2, 13, and 17
• Tightened fairway corridors on 11 and 15
• SubAir system enhancements throughout

These changes favor elite drivers like Scheffler and McIlroy while challenging precision iron players.