Particle.news

McIlroy Sets Augusta Prep Plan as Woods Says Masters Start Is Possible

The defending champion will skip the Cognizant Classic to practice at Augusta using champion privileges.

Overview

  • Rory McIlroy confirmed he will play Augusta National next week with his father, Gerry, and club chairman Fred Ridley.
  • He will bypass the Cognizant Classic to scout Augusta, then play the Texas Children’s Houston Open before skipping the Valero Texas Open to arrive early.
  • His lead‑in includes watching the ANWA final round, taking part in Drive, Chip & Putt, staying on site and using the Sunday champions’ guest round.
  • McIlroy previously visited in December for filming and said seeing his nameplate in the champions’ locker room was a nostalgic moment.
  • Tiger Woods told CBS there is a possibility he will play the 2026 Masters, though he is still rehabbing a 2025 Achilles rupture and an October lumbar disc replacement with no return timeline set.