Masters 2026 tee times, TV coverage, live stream and more to watch Thursday's Round 1

Masters 2026 tee times, TV coverage, live stream and more to watch Thursday's Round 1 originally appeared on The Sporting News . Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here . The 90th edition of the Masters Tournament returns to the hallowed grounds of Augusta National this week, marking the official start of the 2026 major championship season.

All eyes are on defending champion Rory McIlroy, who returns to Georgia one year after his historic playoff victory over Justin Rose, a win that finally secured his career Grand Slam and ended an 11-year major drought. However, the path to a repeat will be steep, as World No. 1 and two-time winner Scottie Scheffler enters the week as the heavy betting favorite, joined by a surging Bryson DeChambeau and a formidable LIV Golf contingent.

The stakes extend far beyond the green jacket, as the 2026 opener serves as a high-pressure test for the game’s biggest stars. McIlroy is chasing history, attempting to become the first back-to-back winner since Tiger Woods in 2002, while Scheffler aims to cement his era of dominance with a third victory before the age of 30. Meanwhile, the professional divide remains a central narrative; with Jon Rahm and DeChambeau arriving in peak form following recent wins on the LIV circuit, Augusta National stands as the ultimate battleground where the world’s best — regardless of tour affiliation—must prove their mettle on golf’s most demanding stage.

The first day of play promises high-stakes drama and essential viewing for golf purists and casual fans alike. Whether you are tracking the progress of young stars like Ludvig Aberg making his tournament debut or monitoring the legendary veterans in the field, staying tuned to the live leaderboard and streaming platforms is vital. Below is everything you need to know about the 2026 Masters schedule, including tee times, TV channels, and how to live stream the action from start to finish.