Masters 2026 Tee Times: Key Start Times And How To Watch
Masters 2026 Tee Times: Key Start Times And How To Watch...
The 2026 Masters Tournament begins today at Augusta National Golf Club, with tee times starting at 8:00 AM ET. Golf fans across the U.S. are searching for start times as the first major championship of the year kicks off under clear Georgia skies.
Defending champion Scottie Scheffler headlines the morning groups, teeing off at 10:42 AM ET alongside Rory McIlroy and rising star Tom Kim. Tiger Woods, making his 30th Masters appearance, begins his quest for a sixth green jacket at 1:24 PM ET.
ESPN will broadcast early round coverage from 3:00 PM to 7:30 PM ET, with featured group streaming available via Masters.com and the ESPN+ app. The tournament is trending as offices across America adjust schedules and golf fans prepare viewing parties for the weekend.
Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley confirmed ideal playing conditions for Thursday's opening round, with temperatures expected near 75°F. The dry forecast contrasts with last year's rain-delayed tournament, promising faster greens and more aggressive play.
Corporate interest spiked this week as several Fortune 500 companies announced early office closures or viewing areas. The Masters consistently ranks as the highest-rated golf event in the U.S., drawing 10-12 million viewers for weekend coverage.
Local businesses in Augusta report record merchandise sales, with patrons lining up since 5:00 AM at the tournament's famed golf shop. The economic impact for Georgia typically exceeds $120 million during Masters week.
Key afternoon groups include Jon Rahm, Justin Thomas and Collin Morikawa (1:48 PM ET), followed by last year's runner-up Cameron Smith at 2:12 PM ET. Early leaderboard updates will appear on Masters.com before TV coverage begins.
This year's tournament features 89 competitors, including 16 first-time participants. The field will be cut to the top 50 players (plus ties) after Friday's second round. Weekend tickets are already reselling for over $2,000 on secondary markets.
Golf analysts predict scoring opportunities on the front nine today, with the traditional Sunday back-nine drama still four days away. The Masters remains the only major played at the same course annually, maintaining its status as golf's most-watched event.
