Masters 2026 Contender Rankings: McIlroy Returns as Champion, Scheffler Eyes Third Green Jacket

McIlroy Returns as Champion Without Pressure

For the first time in his career, Rory McIlroy drives down Magnolia Lane as the defending Masters champion. After completing his career Grand Slam in a playoff victory over Justin Rose in 2025, McIlroy enters with a "freeing feeling" and plans to simply enjoy his champion's week.

Tier I: Clear Favorites

Scottie Scheffler

Despite struggling with his driver recently and ranking 80th in SG: Approach (+0.080), the world No. 1 remains the betting favorite. His 101-under career major record is the best all-time, and he's seeking to become just the ninth player to win three or more green jackets.

Bryson DeChambeau

The power hitter has won consecutive LIV Golf events and is playing some of his best golf. He was the only player besides Scheffler to finish in the top 10 of every round in the past two Masters tournaments.

Other Key Contenders

- Cameron Young: Fresh off his Players Championship victory with a tee-to-green game perfectly suited for Augusta - Patrick Reed: The 2018 champion has finished top-12 in five of his past six Masters starts - Jon Rahm: The 2023 winner has recorded 13 rounds in the 60s at Augusta, most among active players

Tier II: Legitimate Contenders

Matt Fitzpatrick broke a nearly three-year winless streak at Valspar and leads the tour with 69% fairways hit. Jordan Spieth, despite not winning since April 2022, holds the lowest career scoring average (70.98) in Masters history among players with 25+ rounds.

Tier III: Dark Horse Candidates

Rising star Jacob Bridgeman leads the tour in SG: Putting (+1.339) and is second in SG: Total (+1.933). Chris Gotterup has won twice this season while averaging 319.9 yards off the tee, ranking seventh in SG: Tee to Green.