Masters 2026: McIlroy Defends as Scheffler Leads Family-Focused Tour

Rory McIlroy returns to Augusta as defending champion, paired with Cameron Young and Mason Howell.

McIlroy embodies the tournament's blend of elite competition and rich tradition.

BBC

The storyline shifting front and center is family, with Scheffler arriving with his newborn son Remy and 2-year-old Bennett.

Scheffler said, I feel like I live almost two separate lives.

The Masters Par 3 Contest provided a family-friendly prelude.

8-year-old Frankie Fleetwood almost holed out twice and stole the show from his father Tommy.

CBS Sports

Scheffler's children took part, with Bennett wielding a plastic club.

Aaron Rai birdied the last four holes to win the contest.

Scheffler enters as two-time defending champion but with questions about his recent form.

He hasn't finished in the top 10 in his last three starts.

Johnson Wagner suggested the birth of his second child could act as a reset.

Augusta National's firm and fast conditions are expected to suit him.

For the first time since 1994, Woods and Mickelson will both miss the Masters.

Woods is in treatment following another car accident, and Mickelson has a personal health matter.

ESPN

Patrick Reed said honestly I feel it hurts the game.

Scheffler represents a new kind of star, more softly spoken and family-focused.