Every April, golf fanatics alike center their attention on (subjectively) the biggest golf tournament of the year. Held at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia, ‘The Masters’ is a yearly showcase of the best in the golf business. Here are our (Aiden and Victoria’s) very own predictions for possible outcomes at the tournament this year; though, you probably shouldn’t bet on them. While informed in our predictions, the tournament has proven time and time again that anything is possible.
Schlue:
Favorites Scottie Scheffler and Rory Mcllroy are speculated to have a close battle this year at the masters; and while I’m wishing Scheffler will take home another green jacket, I ultimately see Mclroy winning his fifth major this year at the 88th Masters. Scheffler having an impressive season (finishing top five in nearly every tournament) gives me hope for him, but last year at Augusta he finished tenth, which waivers my faith. Though the 35 yard increase on the par 5 can be blamed for unexpected course change, I still dont think Scheffler will be able to pull out another win. Considering Mcllroy’s blow up at the Masters last year and not making the cut, I was initially unsure when I put my faith in him; however, upon careful consideration, I don’t think McIlroy will make the same mistake he did last year, especially considering his track record this season.
Mcllroy, for the past decade has been gunning for a career Grand Slam, and while he dropped the ball last year I think his mistakes are only going to further his motivation. Not only does he want it, but I believe he wants it more than anyone in the game currently. A close second could be Brooks Koepka. Considering his transfer to LIV Golf not too long ago, Koepka has been anxious to get back on the leaderboard. From his runner up performance in last year’s Masters, Koepka faced a lot of backlash considering his split from the PGA tour. Not only would this be a chance to earn another major under his belt but would also give LIV golfers a more respectable name.
While yes, the merger between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour is still new, I think it’s going to be incredibly difficult to get rid of the ‘phony’ name LIV Golfers have been given since 2021. I think Koepka will be able to not only put the stigma to rest while also addressing McIlroy’s publicly stated hatred for the league; considering their popularity in this year’s tournament I feel this year’s tournament will ultimately reside in Mcllroy’s favor.
Brew:
The Masters is more akin to a limited Netflix series rather than the most prestigious golf tournament of the year. It’s something I can mindlessly turn on in the background, follow loosely, and yet still understand fully what’s going on without hovering over it like I would during March Madness.
The tournament is more than just ‘the Masters’, it’s Augusta National Golf Club’s premiere invitation for the world’s best to tackle their course. That being said, it’s important to look at how the golfers participating this year have performed at Augusta instead of their overall performance in the PGA or LIV tours respectively.
Rory McIlroy heads into the 2024 Masters with an interesting mix of promise and uncertainty. One of the most talented golfers of his generation, Rory has a wide range of skills, from powerful drives to precise short game shots. However, despite his abilities, he has faced challenges in winning major tournaments recently. McIlroy’s past experiences and desire to achieve the career Grand Slam should fuel his determination; with his focus and guidance from seasoned coaches like Butch Harmon, McIlroy could harness his talent and overcome the challenges of Augusta, even if he comes up short. If he can perform at his best when it counts, McIlroy most definitely can contend for the title.
Despite his incredible record in major championships, including three PGA Championships and two US Opens, Koepka’s history at Augusta National has been inconsistent. While he’s secured top-ten finishes, he’s also encountered challenges leading to missed cuts in previous years. Koepka’s mindset suggests that if he can find his stride on Augusta’s demanding course, he could emerge as a serious contender for the green jacket.
Victor Hovland enters the 2024 Masters with a huge question mark. Hovland has steadily climbed the ranks in professional golf since turning pro; with several PGA Tour victories under his belt and consistency on the international stage, including representing Europe in the Ryder Cup, Hovland has proven himself as a fair draw. While he’s yet to secure a major, his steady progress and confidence suggest that he is well-positioned to contend at Augusta this year. With his strong tee-to-green game, Hovland has the necessary skills to navigate the challenges of Augusta. As he continues to refine his game and gain valuable experience on golf’s grandest stages, Hovland is my dark horse for this year’s tournament.
