The anticipation is building at Augusta National! The 2026 Masters Tournament, the season's first major championship, is set to begin on Thursday, April 9th. The hallowed grounds of Georgia will once again host the world's best, with all eyes on defending champion Rory McIlroy as he looks to don the iconic green jacket for a second consecutive year.

The official tee times and pairings for the first two rounds have been released, setting the stage for thrilling early storylines. Action kicks off at 8:30 a.m. ET each day, with ESPN and Prime Video providing comprehensive coverage. The groupings promise compelling matchups, including a marquee trio of Bryson DeChambeau, Matt Fitzpatrick, and Xander Schauffele teeing off at 10:07 a.m. on Thursday.

Defending champ Rory McIlroy will start his quest alongside Cameron Young and amateur Mason Howell at 10:31 a.m., while other featured groups include Hideki Matsuyama with Collin Morikawa and Russell Henley. As the players navigate Amen Corner and the treacherous greens, every shot will be a test of skill and nerve, making for must-watch drama from the first tee shot to the final putt.