As the azaleas bloom and the Georgia pines whisper with anticipation, Augusta National prepares to host the Masters, with 13 elite LIV Golf League players vying for the coveted green jacket.
Here I take a closer look at each contender:
Bryson DeChambeau – CRUSHERS GC Captain
Making his 7th Masters start, Bryson DeChambeau’s best finish was T-21 in 2016, earning him low amateur honours.
With a career stroke average of 72.96 at Augusta, his recent form suggests he could contend late on Sunday.
Sergio Garcia – FIREBALLS GC Captain
A seasoned veteran with 24 starts, Sergio Garcia won the Masters in 2017, overcoming Justin Rose in a playoff.
With a career stroke average of 73.05, Garcia’s early-season form bodes well, especially if his putter heats up.
Tyrrell Hatton – LEGION XIII
Hatton, with 7 starts, seeks to improve on his best finish of T-18 in 2021.
Known for his fiery play, he’s made eight consecutive major cuts but has struggled historically at Augusta National.
Dustin Johnson – 4ACES GC Captain
Johnson, the 2020 champion, boasts a career stroke average of 71.52 at Augusta and arrives with renewed form after a victory at LIV Golf Las Vegas.
Brooks Koepka – SMASH GC Captain
A five-time major winner, Koepka has finished T-2 twice at Augusta, including last year.
His career stroke average of 71.46 and past disappointment should serve as motivation.
Adrian Meronk – CLEEKS GC
Meronk, the first Pole at the Masters, makes his second appearance. As the 2023 DP World Tour Player of the Year, he’s determined to make an impact.
Phil Mickelson – HYFLYERS GC Captain
With three Masters titles, Mickelson continues to defy expectations, finishing runner-up last year.
His career stroke average of 71.30 and love for Augusta make him a perennial threat.
Joaquin Niemann – TORQUE GC Captain
Niemann, playing with confidence after three wins since December, seeks to build on his T-16 finish in 2023.
Jon Rahm – LEGION XIII Captain
The defending champion, Rahm, boasts a career stroke average of 70.50 at Augusta and is a strong favourite to retain his title.
Patrick Reed – 4ACES GC
The 2018 champion, Reed, is known for his prowess at Augusta, finishing T-4 last year. He’s expected to bounce back after a slow start this season.
Charl Schwartzel – STINGER GC
Schwartzel, the 2011 champion, has shown improved form, finishing T-2 at LIV Golf Jeddah.
Cameron Smith – RIPPER GC Captain
Smith, with a best finish of T-2, is known for his consistency and is determined to overcome food poisoning concerns.
Bubba Watson – RANGEGOATS GC Captain
Watson, a two-time champion, remains a force at Augusta, capable of conjuring magic when it matters most.
As the Masters Tournament unfolds, these LIV Golf League players bring a wealth of talent and experience, each hoping to etch their name alongside golfing legends.
