Masters 2026: José María Olazábal and Sam Burns Lead Early in Round One
The 2026 Masters has officially commenced at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia, and the opening hours have already delivered a surprising twist. Two-time champion José María Olazábal has signaled that he still possesses the magic at Augusta, sharing the early lead with Sam Burns.
As the field navigates the challenging terrain of the 90th Masters, the leaderboard is shifting rapidly. While the world’s top-ranked players are finding their rhythm, it is the veteran experience of Olazábal and the aggressive play of Burns that have set the early pace.
The Early Leaderboard: Olazábal and Burns Surge
José María Olazábal, one of only four Spaniards to ever win the Masters—alongside Seve Ballesteros, Sergio García, and Jon Rahm—has started the tournament in spectacular fashion. Olazábal currently sits at -2, bolstered by a “creative birdie” on the first hole. His performance serves as a reminder of his historical dominance at Augusta National.
Joining him at the top is Sam Burns, who reached -2 after carding an eagle on the second hole. Other players currently under par include:
- Shane Lowry: -1
- Collin Homa: -1 (the first player to reach the turn under par)
- Kitayama: -1
- Knapp: -1
- Taylor: -1
Defending Champion Rory McIlroy and Favorite Scottie Scheffler
All eyes are on Rory McIlroy, the defending champion who is looking to build on the success of last year when he captured his first green jacket. McIlroy shared a notable moment with 18-time Major champion Jack Nicklaus before heading to the first tee.
Meanwhile, two-time champion Scottie Scheffler enters the tournament as the favorite. Despite a season where he hasn’t yet hit top form, Scheffler remains a primary contender for the title. Other notable movements include former champion Patrick Reed, who opened his round with a birdie on the first.
Irish Contingent and Key Tee Times
The Irish presence is strong in this year’s field. Shane Lowry has had a brilliant start, recording a birdie on the first after a precise approach shot from 154 yards. Lowry continues to press, recently finding the apron of the second green for an eagle opportunity.
The tournament’s schedule features several high-profile groupings (times listed in Irish/Local time):
- 2.43pm (5.56pm): Dustin Johnson, Shane Lowry, Jason Day
- 3.07pm (6.20pm): Bryson DeChambeau, Matt Fitzpatrick, Xander Schauffele
- 3.31pm (6.44pm): Rory McIlroy, Cameron Young, Mason Howell
- 4.15pm (12.50pm): Andrew Novak, Tom McKibbin, Brian Campbell
- 6.44pm (3.19pm): Scottie Scheffler, Robert MacIntyre, Gary Woodland
Key Takeaways from Day One Opening
- Veteran Strength: José María Olazábal is currently tied for the lead at -2.
- Aggressive Starts: Sam Burns is also -2 following an eagle on the second.
- Defending Champ: Rory McIlroy is competing to defend his first-ever green jacket.
- Early Momentum: Shane Lowry has started strongly for the Irish contingent.
As the first round progresses, the focus remains on whether Olazábal can maintain his early momentum or if the tournament favorites like Scheffler and McIlroy will climb the leaderboard as the day unfolds.