The countdown is almost over as the 90th edition of the Masters is set to take place this weekend in Augusta. Golf enthusiasts from around the world are eagerly waiting to witness one of the most prestigious and highly anticipated golf tournaments of the year. With a star-studded field, including the likes of Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, and defending champion Sergio Garcia, this year’s Masters promises to be a thrilling event.
As the excitement builds up, Newsweek has broken down the odds and best bets for the Masters, giving golf fans a comprehensive guide to the tournament. So, let’s take a closer look at what to expect and who to keep an eye on this weekend.
First and foremost, all eyes will be on Tiger Woods as he makes a highly anticipated return to the Masters after a three-year absence. The 14-time major champion has shown signs of his old self, winning the Tour Championship last year. Woods has a phenomenal track record at Augusta National, with four green jackets to his name. Despite not being the favorite, Woods’ experience and determination make him a strong contender for the title.
Another top contender for the Masters title is Rory McIlroy. The Northern Irishman is in great form, having won the Players Championship last month. McIlroy has come close to winning the Masters in the past, finishing in the top 10 in each of the last five years. With his exceptional ball-striking and consistent play, McIlroy is definitely a player to watch out for this weekend.
Defending champion Sergio Garcia will also be vying for another green jacket. The Spaniard ended his long wait for a major victory at last year’s Masters, defeating Justin Rose in a thrilling playoff. Garcia has been in decent form and has a strong record at Augusta, with 10 top-10 finishes in 19 starts. While it is difficult to defend a Masters title, Garcia’s experience and love for the course could give him an edge.
Of course, we cannot forget about the current world number one, Dustin Johnson. The American has been in excellent form this season with three wins and a runner-up finish in his last five events. Johnson has yet to win the Masters, but his power and accuracy off the tee make him a formidable competitor, and he could finally add a green jacket to his collection.
Aside from these top contenders, there are also a few dark horses who could surprise everyone and make a run for the title. Justin Thomas, who currently sits at number two in the world rankings, has already won a major this year and has the game to conquer Augusta. Bubba Watson, a two-time Masters champion, has also been playing well and has a deep understanding of the course.
Lastly, we cannot overlook the young guns who could make a splash at their Masters debut. Cameron Champ, who has the longest average driving distance on the PGA Tour, is one to watch out for. The 23-year-old is already a two-time winner on tour and could make a name for himself with a strong performance this weekend.
As for the odds, Johnson and McIlroy are currently the favorites at 9-1, with Woods and Rose close behind at 12-1. But in a tournament like the Masters, anything can happen, and it all comes down to who can handle the pressure and perform on the big stage.
In addition to the top picks, Newsweek has also listed some of the best bets for the Masters. These include the top four players from last year’s tournament (Garcia, Rose, Charl Schwartzel, and Matt Kuchar) and the top four finishers from the last major (Brooks Koepka, Thomas, Patrick Reed, and Francesco Molinari). These are all experienced players who have had success at the Masters in the past and could once again make their presence felt this year.
With so many top-quality players in the field, this year’s Masters is shaping up to be a thrilling and unpredictable event. The tournament will not only test the players’ skills and mental strength but also their ability to handle the pressure of competing on one of the biggest stages in golf.
So, mark your calendars and get ready for an exciting weekend of golf at the 90th edition of the Masters. Whether it’s the familiar faces or the emerging talents, there is no doubt that the tournament will provide plenty of unforgettable moments for golf fans worldwide. Let the games begin!
