Masters Saturday Tee Times Announced As Leaders Chase History
Masters Saturday Tee Times Announced As Leaders Chase History...
The 2026 Masters Tournament enters its pivotal third round Saturday with tee times now set for golf's top contenders at Augusta National. Tournament officials released the pairings late Friday after a dramatic second round saw several surprise leaders emerge.
World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler will tee off at 2:45 PM ET alongside rising star Ludvig Ã…berg, while defending champion Jon Rahm begins his round at 2:25 PM. The afternoon groupings feature all players who made the cut at +3 or better.
This year's Masters has drawn exceptional attention due to three players currently tied for the lead at -8, matching the lowest 36-hole score in tournament history. The tight leaderboard includes major winners, first-time contenders, and a 48-year-old veteran making an unexpected charge.
Saturday's weather forecast calls for partly cloudy skies with temperatures near 70 degrees, ideal scoring conditions that could produce more record-breaking performances. The tournament committee moved several tee times earlier by 15 minutes as a precaution against potential afternoon thunderstorms.
Augusta National members report strong weekend ticket demand, with secondary market prices reaching $3,500 for Saturday badges. CBS Sports will broadcast the action starting at 3 PM ET, with featured group coverage beginning at 10:15 AM on ESPN+.
The tee sheet reveals several compelling storylines, including a 1:35 PM pairing of rivals Brooks Koepka and Rory McIlroy, both sitting just three shots back. Meanwhile, Tiger Woods begins his round at 12:55 PM as he continues his quest for a record-tying sixth green jacket.
Golf fans across America are particularly invested this year after the PGA Tour's controversial schedule changes pushed the Masters earlier in April. Many workplaces report increased streaming traffic during afternoon hours as viewers follow the moving day drama.
Local businesses in Augusta, Georgia are experiencing their busiest weekend in years, with hotels at 98% occupancy and restaurants extending hours. Tournament organizers expect Saturday's gallery to exceed 40,000 spectators, the largest single-day crowd since pre-pandemic years.
With $18 million in prize money at stake and golf's most coveted trophy awaiting Sunday's winner, Saturday's tee times set the stage for what could become one of the most memorable weekends in Masters history.
