Rory McIlroy prepares for Masters title defence at Augusta National
Rory McIlroy returns to Augusta National this April to defend his Masters title, one year after finally securing the elusive career Grand Slam.
The Northern Irishman etched his name into golfing history last spring by capturing the prestigious green jacket.
That historic victory ended a long wait to claim the final major championship missing from his impressive resume.
However, the defending champion faces formidable competition ahead of the renowned tournament, which runs from 9 to 12 April.
Scheffler leads the contenders
Scottie Scheffler arrives in Georgia as the overwhelming favourite to secure another victory at the iconic venue.
The American has consistently dominated the upper echelons of the sport and poses a significant threat to the title holder.
A star-studded field will battle across the pristine fairways, ensuring a spectacular opening major for the 2026 season.
Chasing back-to-back glory
McIlroy’s triumph in 2025 completed a remarkable journey that began with his first major championship breakthrough back in 2011.
Only a highly exclusive group of golfing legends have ever managed to win all four modern major tournaments.
The four-time major winner will now attempt to become the first back-to-back champion at Augusta since Tiger Woods.
