While the tournament releases the figures after the Round 2 cut, we do know how much they made last year, when Rory McIlroy finally became a Grand Slam champion after a thrilling playoff victory over Justin Rose. This year, Phil Mickelson won’t be playing The Masters. Tiger Woods will also be absent.

The Masters had a record $21 million total purse in 2025, with McIlroy getting $4.2 million for his win. The runner-up ended with $2.268 million, while third place earned $1,428 million. The fourth place earned $1 million, and the fifth $840,000. The top 50 players earned money, and the ones missing the cut receive $25,000.

Is The Masters the highest-paying tournament in golf?

While it’s arguably the most prestigious tournament in golf, the fact is that The Masters is not the most profitable tournament for the players. The Tour Championship has a $40 million total prize pool, with the winner getting $10 million.

Following the Tour Championship, The Players Championship has a $25 million, with the winner going $4.5 million richer to his house. The US Open has a $21.5 million prize pool, and then we get to The Masters. Hence, it’s the fourth-highest paying tournament.

Who’s the favorite to win The Masters?

Scottie Scheffler has won the tournament in 2022 and 2024, so he is clearly a name to watch. Jon Rahm is also a top name to follow, as well as defending champion Rory McIlroy, and perennial contender Bryson DeChambeau.

Last year’s runner-up Justin Rose is a name to follow, as well as the notable Brooks Koepka. No player has won The Masters on their debut since 1979, however, Ludvig Aberg will try to end the streak.

During Rory McIlroy’s dramatic Masters victory and ascension to the career Grand Slam, Griffey Jr. was among the accredited photographers capturing official images. He was perfectly positioned to freeze the iconic moment when the Northern Irish golfer knelt on the green in celebration.

That remarkable photograph joins Griffey Jr.’s growing portfolio of sports moments, but this was a rare opportunity to document a historic achievement that occurs infrequently. The last golfer to complete the Grand Slam before Rory McIlroy did so 25 years prior, a time when Griffey Jr. was still starring in baseball.

Griffey Jr.’s Epic Shot: Capturing McIlroy’s Masters Moment

The powerful image was part of the official media pool for the tournament, with its licensing belonging to Getty Images, which features it on their official website alongside other photos taken by Griffey Jr. and his colleagues throughout the rounds and the playoff.

A search of Getty Images’ website indicates that The Masters was Griffey Jr.’s most recent credited photographic endeavor, at least as a contributor for that agency. He has also been seen working at MLB and NFL games; in 2023, he was photographed with his camera at a Cowboys-Eagles matchup.

Does Ken Griffey Jr. Play Golf?

Griffey Jr. appears to have a genuine passion for golf. Numerous online videos show him playing and practicing his swing, which likely retains some of the power he displayed on the baseball field. In 2024, he participated in “The Match: Superstars at The Breakers,” an exhibition event alongside other celebrities.

Cabrera recently claimed victory at the James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational in Boca Raton, marking his first win on American soil since the 2014 Greenbrier Classic on the PGA Tour. With a score of 205 (-11), the 55-year-old will ride his wave of momentum into The Masters in Augusta, where he’ll vie for a second title at the iconic golf venue.

Though his appearance in the prestigious competition has raised several eyebrows among patrons, Angel Cabrera is set to compete in the 2025 Masters for the first time in six years. He’ll be chasing his second win in Augusta, having first donned the green jacket in 2009 and finishing as runner-up in 2013. Cabrera also claimed the U.S. Open title in 2007.

With his recent win in Boca Raton, Cabrera secured a hefty $330,000 award, while becoming the fifth Argentinian to win a Champions Tour competition. “I knew this moment would arrive, but I didn’t expect it to happen so quickly,” Cabrera admitted to the media after his win on April 6, and ahead of the first major golf tournament of the year.

Serving time

Cabrera was sentenced to two and a half years in prison by an Argentinian court after being found guilty of gender-based violence against his ex-wife. Cabrera served from January 2021 until August 2023. In December of that year, he made his long-awaited return to the golf course.

“Life has given me a second chance, and I want to enjoy it. I had four or five rough years—everything was going great until then. Now, things will return to how they once were,” Angel Cabrera stated on the eve of The Masters.

Noise around Cabrera’s invitation

Due to his personal record, Cabrera’s appearance in The Masters 2025 has made much noise around fans, who aren’t thrilled about the former champion participating in the first major tournament of the year. Cabrera has a different opinion, nevertheless.

“I deserve to be here—I’ve won The Masters. Why shouldn’t I?” Cabrera firmly responded when asked about his return, following the historic Champions Dinner at Augusta. “I respect other people’s views—everyone is entitled to their own opinion.”

Augusta National president Fred Ridley issued a clear statement regarding his stance—and the tournament’s—on the controversy surrounding Cabrera’s participation.

“We certainly abhor any form of domestic violence,” Augusta National chairman Ridley stated. “As for Ángel, he has served the sentence imposed by the Argentine courts, and he is a former champion, which is why he was invited.”

Though former champions have an automatic invitation to The Masters, Cabrera was unable to participate in the 2024 edition after being denied a visa, leaving him sidelined from the tournament.

Feels good to be back

“I’m very thankful for the warm welcome—people have treated me beautifully. The golf world is very kind,” Cabrera added. “Obviously, I regret the things I’ve done, but that’s all in the past. I’m only looking forward from here. I never believed I wouldn’t return; I just let things flow. I knew I had made mistakes, and I told myself to be patient and not overthink what could happen.”

On April 9, The Masters will tee off with 95 contenders vying for eternal glory in the state of Georgia. Cabrera will be one of the biggest names in a star-studded field filled with hungry golfers, all in pursuit of the green jacket most recently worn by world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler.

Each year, four golf tournaments rise above the rest, shaping careers and defining legacies. Known as “the majors”, they bring together the world’s top players for a test of skill, patience, and poise on the game’s biggest stages.

From the blooming azaleas of Augusta to the gusty coastlines of the UK, each major has its own identity. They don’t just differ in course or country—they tell completely different stories about what it means to master the sport.

Why do these four matter more than hundreds of others played yearly? It’s not just history or prize money—it’s tradition, challenge and global prestige. Let’s break down what makes each major unique, from format quirks to calendar spots.

The Masters

The Masters unfolds each April at the immaculate Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia, the only major held at a permanent venue. Conceived by Bobby Jones and Clifford Roberts in 1934, it marks the ceremonial start of golf’s biggest season. Participation is by invitation only, creating an elite field composed of former champions, top-ranked professionals and recent major winners.

What elevates The Masters is its ritualistic charm. From the ceremonial first tee shots to the Champion’s Dinner and the coveted Green Jacket, every detail contributes to a sense of reverence. Augusta’s setting—with its rolling fairways and blooming azaleas—adds visual drama to the intensity of competition.

The tournament follows a 72-hole stroke play format, with the top 50 and ties advancing after two rounds. Its slick, contoured greens and strategic layout demand creative shot-making and composure, especially under pressure. Though the youngest of the four majors, it carries a mystique that makes it unforgettable.

PGA Championship

Unlike its counterparts, the PGA Championship is reserved solely for professional golfers, a fact that defines its character. First held in 1916, it transitioned from match play to stroke play in 1958 and now occupies a prime slot in May. It’s overseen by the PGA of America—not to be confused with the PGA Tour—and consistently features one of the most competitive fields in golf.

This major is widely regarded as a proving ground for modern pros, with entry earned via rankings, recent performance and qualification by club professionals. The tournament’s venues vary each year, offering a mix of traditional layouts and contemporary challenges.

It is known for rewarding aggressive, high-level play while still requiring precision and strategy. Its format is 72-hole stroke play with a cut after 36 holes. Winners often emerge from thrilling final rounds, where shotmaking meets mental resilience. It’s a favorite among players for its balance of prestige and opportunity.

U.S. Open

Renowned as the toughest of the four, the U.S. Open is golf’s ultimate stress test. Organized by the USGA, it takes place in June at a rotating selection of demanding U.S. courses—venues like Winged Foot, Oakmont and Pebble Beach, known for unforgiving setups. Every element, from tight fairways to thick rough and rapid greens, is designed to challenge the limits of the field.

It’s also the most accessible major in terms of qualification. Thousands of professionals and amateurs compete in preliminary rounds, earning the tournament a reputation as golf’s most open crucible. Still, by the weekend, it’s usually the calmest heads and sharpest games that survive.

With a stroke play format over 72 holes and a cut to the top 60 and ties, the U.S. Open demands grit, patience and adaptability. Scoring under par is rarely the norm—often, even level par can lead to victory. The mental toll it takes has become part of its legend, making a win here a true badge of honor.

The Open Championship

The Open Championship—simply “The Open” to purists—is the oldest of the majors, first staged in 1860 at Prestwick, Scotland. Managed by The R&A, it travels each July to storied coastal courses such as St Andrews, Royal Portrush, and Muirfield. These rugged links terrains are exposed to the elements, giving The Open its distinctive personality.

Wind, firm fairways and pot bunkers demand improvisation and a deep understanding of trajectory and spin. Players must often abandon modern power play in favor of finesse and adaptability. The weather can shift within minutes, turning birdie chances into bogey scrambles.

The competition follows the standard 72-hole stroke play format, with a cut to the top 70 and ties after two rounds. The winner receives the Claret Jug, an enduring symbol of golfing excellence. Above all, The Open honors the origins of the sport—its grassroots spirit, global reach, and unvarnished purity remain at its heart.

“April 14, 2036. That is my scheduled retirement date. It would be a perfect place to walk out (100th edition of Masters). A lot of things have to happen for that to occur. First off, my health would have to hold up. Secondly, CBS and Augusta National would have to want me to come back. But if all the stars aligned, right now, it feels like a pretty good exit point.”

In addition to being one of the leading figures in golf commentary, Nantz has risen to prominence for his work in the NFL, narrating the Super Bowl several times. He also had spectacular moments during March Madness.

Where and when is the 2025 Masters Tournament?

The 2025 Masters Tournament will be held at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia, from April 10 to April 13. The tournament will follow its traditional schedule, taking place during the first full week of April.

Undoubtedly, the biggest absence for fans will be Tiger Woods, who just a few days ago confirmed that he suffered an Achilles injury. However, favorites like Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy will try to win the famous Green Jacket.

In 2022 the winner of the Masters Tournament was Scottie Scheffler, so far he is in T14 but there is still one last chance for Scottie as defending champion.

Among the veterans Phil Mickelson is in a position at the T8 with -4 par, but he is sharing that spot with Jason Day, Russell Henley, Joaquin Niemann, among others.

When will round 3 of the 2023 Masters Tournament resume?

Round 3 was halted at 3:16 PM due to weather (rain), the round will resume on April 9, the tournament is expected to go through a couple of adjustments to avoid a new suspension due to weather.

It is very likely that John Rahm will take the lead during round 3 on what will be the last day of the 2023 Masters Tournament, but anything could happen.

Tiger Woods is still alive in the tournament but he is in the last spot on the leaderboard, only a miracle would lead Woods to a better position during the last round.

The first Major of the season is finally beginning. There will be stars from both the PGA Tour and the newly created LIV Golf, so there will surely be a great champion. The player that starts as the favorite is the 2022 winner Scottie Scheffler.

Another name that can’t be missed is of course Tiger Woods. The five-time champion at the Augusta National Golf Club will be making yet another appearance. But whoever gets crowned as the best will also receive a lot of rewards.

Prize money for The Masters Tournament 2023

The sport has gone through a big shakeup lately with the focal point of those conversations being money. That’s why it makes sense that Majors don’t necessarily offer the biggest paydays in golf, although there are still noteworthy figures to handed. For the player that ends up victorious in Augusta there will be more than just the glorious Green Jacket.

The Masters Tournament 2023 will give 2,700,000 dollars to the champion. It is the usual 18% of the money to be distributed, so those who finish right after him will also receive good sums. The total purse at The Masters is 15 million dollars.

[Watch The Masters Tournament 2023 online free in the US on Fubo]

There is plenty of expectation surrounding The Masters for everything that is at stake. This will be the 86th edition of the first Major of the year, and the defending champion will be there. In fact, 2022 winner Scottie Scheffler starts as the main favorite.

But there will be other storylines to track throughout the weekend. Someone that won’t go unnoticed is Tiger Woods. It remains to be seen how far he will make it, although Woods is the player that most fans are going to follow in Augusta.

When will The Masters Tournament 2023 be played?

The Masters Tournament 2023 will begin this Thursday, April 6. Therefore, the final round of The Masters will be played next Sunday, April 9.

The Masters Tournament 2023: Time by State in the US

Round 1 – April 6

ET: 7:45 AM
CT: 6:45 AM
MT: 5:45 AM
PT: 4:45 AM

Round 2 – April 7

ET: 7:30 AM
CT: 6:30 AM
MT: 5:30 AM
PT: 4:30 AM

* Tee times in this round were moved up 30 minutes due to potential weather-related issues.

Round 3 – April 8

ET: 10:15 AM
CT: 9:15 AM
MT: 8:15 AM
PT: 7:15 AM

*Times are estimates because the day will start with the resumption of round 2 at 8:00 AM (ET).

Round 4 – April 9

ET: 12:30PM
CT: 11:30AM
MT:10:30AM
PT: 9:30AM

*Times are estimates since the day will begin with the finalization of round 3starting at 8:30 AM (ET).

How to watch The Masters Tournament 2023 in the US

The Masters Tournament 2023 will be available to watch or live stream on Fubo (free trial) in the US. Paramount+, ESPN, CBS, and Masters.com are the other options.

LIVis a professional golf tour which has divided the sport and the public opinion. This ‘new tour’ has taken away players from thePGA Tourby offering them incredible amounts of money. Because the LIV isfinanced by thePublic Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, the PGA Tour simply cannot compete with the checks that have been offered to many golfers.

The rules are clear. All LIV players have beenbanned from the PGA Tour and that’s why thousands of fans wonder what will happen at the 2023 Masters. Read here to findout the answer.

How manyLIV golfers are playing in The Masters 2023?

LIV golfers will be allowed to play in The Masters 2023. Under theircriteria, apart from the PGA Tour, August National Golf Club directors haveconfirmedthere will be invitations for those golfers.

Theseare the LIV players invited to Augusta: Cameron Smith, Phil Mickelson, Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson, Sergio Garcia, Bubba Watson,Abraham Ancer,Bryson DeChambeau, Talor Gooch, Jason Kokrak, Kevin Na, Joaquin Niemann, Louis Oosthuizen, Thomas Pieters, Patrick Reed, Harold Varner and Charl Schwartzel.

It’s important to remember that a spot in The Masters only comes through an official invitation by Augusta National. The club has established their own criteriato be in the field such as being a formerMasters’ champion, a recent Majors’ championor PGA Tour and World Golf rankings. That’s why, as The Masters doesn’t depend on the PGA Tour, LIV players can be invited.

The first Major championship of the year has John Rahm as favorite for the oddsmakers followed by Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, Cameron Smith, Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas. It’s important to remember that players from LIV Golf Series will be allowed to participate even after leaving the PGA Tour.

Of course, one of the biggest questions in golf is if Tiger Woods will play in the 2023 Masters.Woodsis 47-years old and his recovery has been almost miraculous after the 2021 car accident in which he had serious leg injuries. Many doctors believed his professional career was over. Read here to find out if he’ll play at Augusta.

Is Tiger Woods playing The Masters 2023?

Tiger Woods is playing The Masters2023 as he is currently part of the field and hasn’t shownany sign of withdrawal. So far, in the last few days, Tigerhas already played many practice rounds at Augusta Nationalprior to the start of the first Major championship of the year.

After seven months,Woodsfinally came back to thePGA TouratThe Genesis Invitationalin Riviera Country Club. His performance was remarkable making the cut and finishing T-45. Considering how long he was out, Tiger just shocked the world posting rounds of 69, 74, 67 and 73.

Following the car accident in 2021, Tiger Woods just needs one more victory to hold the record for most PGA Tour wins which currently shares withSam Snead. Also, the2023 Mastersis a main goal for him trying to chase Jack Nicklaus’ record at Majors. Woods is three behind the Golden Bear.

It’s important to remember that, as a former champion, Tiger Woods has a lifetime invitation to play at The Masters. Woods has won the tournament five times: 1997, 2001, 2002, 2005 and 2019.