The weekend at Augusta National will proceed without some of golf's biggest stars, as the 2026 Masters cut line claimed a host of notable names. With the cut set at +4 after Friday's second round, 37 players saw their tournament end early, a list that reads like a who's who of major championship pedigree.

Most strikingly, a parade of former Masters champions will be absent from Saturday's play. The group includes recent winners like Danny Willett (2016) and Bubba Watson (2012, 2014), alongside legends such as Zach Johnson (2007), Mike Weir (2003), Vijay Singh (2000), José María Olazábal (1999), and the iconic Fred Couples (1992). Their early exits underscore the relentless challenge Augusta presents, even to those who have conquered it before.

The surprises didn't stop there. The cut also claimed last week's PGA Tour winner, J.J. Spaun, fresh off his victory at the Valero Texas Open, highlighting the unpredictable nature of form at a major. Perhaps the most talked-about departure is that of Bryson DeChambeau. The powerful LIV Golf star and two-time U.S. Open champion struggled to find his rhythm, adding his name to the list of high-profile players heading home.

While these stars pack their bags, the stage is set for a commanding weekend performance from Rory McIlroy. The reigning champion has been in sublime form, building a formidable six-shot lead over Patrick Reed and Sam Burns, who are tied for second. McIlroy's dominant start has him poised to chase history, leaving the drama of the cut line firmly behind as he focuses on securing another green jacket.