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The Masters 2021 is finally upon us and returns to its signature springtime slot as Dustin Johnson defends the Green Jacket.
The world No 1 surged to a record-breaking victory when the tournament was played under unfamiliar conditions last November, with no patrons permitted to attend the event. This time, organisers are keen to ensure there is no similar dismantling, particularly after US Open champion Bryson DeChambeau once again pricked ears by doubling down on suggestions that the course plays easier than its par 72. The greens are said to be incredibly firm and slick this time out, with little mercy afforded to any players.
Rory McIlroy is still hoping to complete the career Grand Slam, however, his hopes appear slim amid a dire run of form that’s seen the Northern Irishman team up with swing coach Pete Cowen. Ahead of this week, McIlroy has been urged by legendary instructor Butch Harmon to go “back to the basic fundamentals” rather than attempting to match DeChambeau’s imposing distance.
Justin Thomas arrives as one of the favourites after his victory at the Players Championship last month while former Masters champion Jordan Spieth finally recaptured his best form last weekend, winning the Valero Open in his home state of Texas.
Here is everything you need to know ahead of Thursday’s first round:
When is it?
The Masters begins on Thursday 8 April and will conclude on Sunday 11 April.
How can I watch it in the UK?
All four days will be broadcast live on Sky Sports’ dedicated golf channel, as well as Sky Sports Main Event.
Thursday: 2pm-12.30am (Featured Groups from 2pm to 7.30pm)
Friday: 2pm-12.30am (Featured Groups from 2pm to 7.30pm)
Saturday: 8pm-12.30am (Featured Groups from 2pm to 7.30pm)
Sunday: 7pm-12.30am (Featured Groups from 6pm to 7pm)
Featured holes are available every day via the red button from 4.45pm
Tee-times
Tee-times will be provided here once released.
What are the odds?
- Dustin Johnson: 9-1
- Justin Thomas: 10-1
- Jordan Spieth: 10-1
- Bryson DeChambeau: 11-1
- Jon Rahm: 12-1
- Rory McIlroy: 14-1
- Patrick Cantlay 22-1
- Brooks Koepka: 25-1
- Patrick Reed: 28-1
- Collin Morikawa: 28-1
- Lee Westwood: 30-1
- Tony Finau: 33-1
- Viktor Hovland: 33-1
- Daniel Berger: 33-1
- Hideki Matsuyama: 35-1
- Scottie Scheffler: 35-1
- Webb Simpson: 35-1
- Cameron Smith: 35-1
- Tyrrell Hatton: 35-1
- Sungjae Im: 35-1
- Paul Casey: 40-1
- Jason Day: 45-1
- Sergio Garcia: 45-1
- Tommy Fleetwood: 45-1
- Matthew Fitzpatrick: 45-1
- Joaquin Niemann: 50-1
Prediction
All eyes will be on Bryson DeChambeau come Thursday with the US Open champion’s distance threatening to transform golf in the most evident way since Tiger Woods’ emergence over two decades ago. DeChambeau did not handle the pressure all that well last November, however, he has played impressively since then and now has greater experience of Augusta’s nooks and crannies. It is unlikely to be the type of runaway victory many fear, though, with the course certain to provide a sterner test.
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