The Masters at Augusta is much more than just a tournament: it is golf’s most iconic event and the first major of the year. It is always held at the same venue, the legendary Augusta National, and every April it brings together the world’s best players in pursuit of the famous green jacket. If you’re a beginner or intermediate golfer, here you have a guide to understanding The Augusta Masters so you can make the most of the 2026 tournament.
1. WHAT MAKES THE AUGUSTA MASTERS UNIQUE
Unlike other major tournaments, the Masters is always played at the same course: Augusta National. This makes it a tournament steeped in tradition, history and recurring themes year after year.
What’s more, the winner receives the iconic green jacket and a lifetime invitation to return and compete.
2. TOURNAMENT FORMAT (EASY TO UNDERSTAND)
The Masters is played over four days (72 holes) in a stroke play format:
- Thursday and Friday: first rounds
- Cut after 36 holes (the top players go through)
- Saturday and Sunday: final round
Only the top 50 players (and those tied) or those close to the leader continue to compete over the weekend.
3. HOW PLAYERS ARE RANKED (UPDATED 2026)
The Masters is not open to everyone: it is an invitational tournament with multiple entry routes:
- Previous champions (lifetime invitation)
- Top players in the world rankings
- Winners of major tournaments
- Amateur champions
👉 Recent development: from 2026, more winners of international Opens (Spain, Japan, Australia, etc.) will be included, reinforcing the tournament’s global character.
4. THE COUNTRYSIDE AND ITS RECENT CHANGES
Augusta National is famous for its beauty… and its difficulty. Each hole has its own name and character.
👉 In 2026, there is a key change:
The 17th hole has been extended by around 10 metres, making it more strategically demanding from the tee.
These minor adjustments ensure the course remains competitive in the face of technological advances in golf.
5. TRADITIONS THAT DEFINE THE TOURNAMENT
The Masters wouldn’t be the same without its rituals:
- Champions’ Dinner (winners only)
- Amen Corner (the decisive 11th, 12th and 13th holes)
- No advertising on the course
- Affordable ticket prices for the public
All of this creates a unique atmosphere that sets it apart from the other majors.
The Masters at Augusta is a perfect blend of tradition, strategy and excitement. Understanding its format, its scoring system and the details of the course will allow you to enjoy every shot from a different perspective.
And if you’re a golf lover and want to experience it for yourself, we invite you to come to Font del Llop Golf Resort, where you can challenge yourself, improve your game and feel the essence of golf in a unique setting.
Because, at the end of the day, we all dream of our own ‘Masters’… and yours can start here.