The 2026 golf season kicks off this week at the iconic Augusta National Golf Club. As the first major of the year, the Masters Tournament carries immense weight, especially for Rory McIlroy. After a 17-year wait, McIlroy finally secured his green jacket last year, completing his career Grand Slam. This year, he aims to join the elite ranks of Tiger Woods, Nick Faldo, and Jack Nicklaus by winning back-to-back titles.
While McIlroy is the defending champion, the field is crowded with talent. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler enters as the betting favorite, though LIV Golf stars Bryson DeChambeau and 2023 champion Jon Rahm remain top contenders for the $3.6 million prize.
📅 Tournament Schedule
The Masters will take place from Thursday, April 9, to Sunday, April 12, 2026.
🇺🇸 US Viewing Guide: Navigating a Complex Broadcast
For American viewers, following the tournament is more complicated than in previous years due to a fragmented broadcasting lineup. This year marks the debut of Prime Video as a golf broadcaster, splitting coverage across several platforms.
The Best Way to Watch (Free Option)
The most efficient and cost-effective method is via The Masters official website and mobile app. The tournament provides a free simulcast of both ESPN and CBS broadcasts, allowing you to follow every shot from the opening tee shot to the final putt.
Streaming & Cable Options
If you prefer dedicated streaming services, here is how to navigate the various tiers:
- Prime Video: Providing early coverage on Thursday and Friday.
- Paramount Plus: Offers early weekend coverage (12 p.m. to 2 p.m. ET) and a livestream of the CBS feed for the final two days.
- Note: The “Essential” plan ($9/month) includes ads and lacks the live CBS feed; the “Premium Plus” plan ($14/month) is required for full access.
- ESPN / ESPN Unlimited: Provides extensive coverage through its various networks. The ESPN Unlimited tier ($30/month) offers full access to all ESPN networks.
- Cable/Live TV Providers: Services like YouTube TV, Fubo, and DirecTV carry both CBS and ESPN, making them reliable options for those who want a traditional broadcast experience.
Daily US Broadcast Schedule (All times ET)
| Day | Featured Groups | Featured Holes (Amen Corner, etc.) | Main Round Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thursday, April 9 | 9:15 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. | Various (8:45 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.) | 1 p.m. (Prime) / 3 p.m. (ESPN) |
| Friday, April 10 | 9:15 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. | Various (8:45 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.) | 1 p.m. (Prime) / 3 p.m. (ESPN) |
| Saturday, April 11 | 10:15 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Various (10:30 a.m. – 7 p.m.) | 12 p.m. – 2 p.m. (Paramount) / 2 p.m. (CBS) |
| Sunday, April 12 | 10:15 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Various (10:30 a.m. – 7 p.m.) | 12 p.m. – 2 p.m. (Paramount) / 2 p.m. (CBS) |
🌍 International Coverage
If you are watching from outside the United States, coverage is more streamlined through regional sports networks:
United Kingdom 🇬🇧
Fans can watch via Sky Sports on the Sky Sports Golf and Main Events channels.
* Now TV: A “Sports” membership allows for full coverage from £35/month, or a single-day pass for the final round can be purchased for £15.
Australia 🇦🇺
Coverage is provided by Fox Sports via Foxtel.
* Kayo Sports: The primary streaming option. Subscriptions start at AU$30/month (one screen) or AU$46/month (up to three screens). New customers may be eligible for a one-week free trial.
Canada 🇨🇦
The tournament is broadcast via TSN.
* TSN Plus: A streaming service priced at CA$25/month, ideal for viewers who do not have a traditional cable subscription.
Summary: While the fragmented US broadcast landscape requires careful planning, the official Masters app offers the simplest free way to follow the action, while international viewers can rely on established regional streaming services like Sky Sports, Kayo, or TSN.
