
The Masters has arrived, and once again, much of the focus is on two familiar names.
Rory McIlroy returns to Augusta as defending champion, while Scottie Scheffler heads into the week as world number one and a previous winner at the tournament.
Both are expected to be firmly in contention, and several of their fellow professionals have now had their say on the debate.
Several leading players were asked which former Masters champion they believe is most likely to win again this week.
Collin Morikawa and Justin Thomas were among those to choose Scheffler, alongside Matt Fitzpatrick, Sam Burns and Russell Henley.
Their answers underline just how highly Scheffler is regarded heading into Augusta, widely viewed as the leading contender.
However, when asked to pick the most likely non-American winner, McIlroy was a popular selection.
Burns, Thomas and Henley all backed him in that category, while Fitzpatrick and Morikawa liked Tommy Fleetwood’s chances.
It highlights the strength of the field at the top, with the McIlroy versus Scheffler debate likely to dominate the week.
Who will leave their mark on the 2026 Tournament? The players named their Masters Fantasy picks. #themasters pic.twitter.com/wMHfMVpRjE
— The Masters (@TheMasters) April 5, 2026
Beyond the headline battle, players were also asked to identify potential breakout performers at Augusta.
Morikawa pointed to Ryan Gerard as a first-timer to keep an eye on. “I think he’s gritty. It’s his first Masters. You need to have that going into your first trip there.”
Justin Thomas and Sam Burns both mentioned Chris Gotterup as another player who could make an impact this week.
Thomas also highlighted Corey Conners as a wildcard option. “He always plays well there.”
While much of the attention will be on McIlroy and Scheffler, these picks underline the depth of talent in the field and the unpredictability that often defines The Masters.
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