Alabaster, Alabama (Issuewire.com) - Join Scott Murray for updates from the first round at Augusta National.Live From the Masters” airs from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. EDT, ahead of first-round coverage on ESPN. Follow the action from start to finish
Watch Live Now stream early coverage on Thursday and Friday for the first time
The 2026 Masters has officially arrived with four days of pristine golf at the country's best course getting underway as all 91 men in the field aim to complete 72 holes at Augusta National Golf Club by sliding their arms through a green jacket. Only one will be lucky enough to achieve that feat, but to do so, they must get off to a hot start as the action begins Thursday with Round 1 setting the stage for the year's first major.
The grounds are filled with patrons, and they are undoubtedly keen to see how the likes of Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm perform as the four best golfers in the world look to make their share of history at Augusta National. Follow live leaderboard updates from Round 1 of the 2026 Masters.
Oddsmakers list Scheffler as the most likely man to find the winner's circle, which would give him three green jackets in five years. McIlroy is aiming to go back-to-back at the Masters, while Rahm seeks his second green jacket and DeChambeau looks to atone for his Sunday implosion a year ago while checking another major championship off his list.
There is so much to follow this week that it can be overwhelming at times. No worries: We have you covered. On Thursday alone, you can watch the entire first rounds from Scheffler, McIlroy, Rahm, DeChambeau, Matt Fitzpatrick, Xander Schauffele, Cameron Young and many others.
CBS Sports is offering live coverage of the 2026 Masters from start to finish on Thursday with our myriad of Masters Live streaming options. Hit the links below to tune into the Featured Groups channel and watch complete rounds from some of the best golfers in the game, spend your day surveying Amen Corner or view all the action at Holes 15 & 16. Masters TV coverage does not begin until later in the day, so this is the absolute best place to watch the Masters live on Thursday.
The first round of any Masters Tournament always carries a special feeling. Players arrive after months of preparation, knowing that one strong opening day can establish confidence for the entire week. At the same time, one difficult stretch can place even elite contenders under pressure before the weekend begins. In 2026, that familiar tension returned immediately as the opening groups stepped onto the course under clear morning skies and fast greens.
A Fast Start Sets the Tone
From the first tee shot of the morning, Augusta National reminded players that it rewards discipline more than aggression. Several early starters found success by avoiding unnecessary risks, choosing precise placement over distance. Fairways became especially valuable because the greens were firm, meaning approach shots needed exact spin and landing control.
Several contenders opened with birdies on the first nine holes, creating early movement on the leaderboard. Players who managed to stay patient through holes like the par-4 fifth and the demanding seventh often gained momentum before reaching the back nine.
The front nine played slightly friendlier than many expected, but Augusta’s second half quickly separated those in control from those forcing the issue.
Featured Groups Draw Global Attention
Among the most watched groups were established major champions paired with rising international stars. Every year, opening-round pairings generate huge excitement because fans can compare styles under identical conditions.
Some players attacked pins early, especially on shorter par fours, while others took a cautious approach, understanding that Augusta often punishes emotional decisions more than technical mistakes.
A major highlight came on the par-5 eighth, where multiple players reached in two shots and created eagle opportunities. Long iron accuracy became one of the major talking points of the round.
The Greens Remain the Ultimate Test
Even for the best players in the world, Augusta’s greens continue to decide momentum. Putts that appeared simple often drifted late, while downhill attempts required exceptional touch.
Round 1 showed that players who kept approach shots below the hole immediately gained an advantage. Several competitors missed realistic birdie chances simply because they left themselves difficult angles.
The 12th hole again proved unforgettable. Though short by championship standards, the famous par-3 created dramatic score swings. A few players attacked too directly and paid the price in the water, while experienced competitors accepted safer targets and moved on with pars.
Early Leaders Build Confidence
As afternoon groups reached Amen Corner, the leaderboard became crowded with names from different generations of golf. Some younger players showed fearless ball striking, while veterans relied on course management and patience.
One of the strongest opening rounds came from a player who stayed bogey-free through long stretches, using exceptional wedge control and steady putting to post a number that immediately drew attention.
Opening-day leaders at Augusta know the challenge ahead: history shows that one strong round helps, but nothing is guaranteed.
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