As the lush greens of Augusta National Golf Club come into full bloom, the stage is set for the 89th edition of the Masters Tournament, promising four days of top-tier golf and dramatic competition. The tournament, which kicks off on a bright Thursday morning, will see the world’s elite golfers converge in Augusta, Georgia, each aiming to etch their name into the annals of golf history.
Star-Studded Groupings to Watch
Leading the pack is the defending champion, Scottie Scheffler, who is scheduled to tee off at 10:15 AM alongside Justin Thomas and amateur sensation Jose Luis Ballester. This early-late tee time combination for Scheffler sets a fascinating precedent for the tournament, as it puts him in a prime position to observe his closest competitors’ scores before he heads out for his second round.
Not to be overlooked, Rory McIlroy, who is often seen as a crowd favorite, will start his quest for the elusive green jacket at 1:12 PM. He is grouped with up-and-comers Ludvig Åberg and Akshay Bhatia, providing a blend of experience and youthful ambition. McIlroy’s late-early schedule could offer him the advantage of cooler morning conditions on day two—a small but potentially significant edge.
Early Risers and Notable Tee Times
The tournament begins with the traditional honorary starters. Golf legends Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, and Gary Player will set the tone for the competition with the ceremonial first tee shot at 7:25 AM. Following them, a mix of seasoned pros and promising newcomers will make their way through the iconic course.
Among the notable early tee times, fans should keep an eye on the trio of Phil Mickelson, Jason Day, and Keegan Bradley, teeing off at 9:58 AM. Each has had a taste of major success and will look to rekindle their finest form at Augusta.
The mid-morning also boasts compelling groupings, such as Jordan Spieth, Tom Kim, and Tyrrell Hatton at 10:26 AM. This group combines Spieth’s strategic mastery with Kim’s rising star power and Hatton’s fiery competitiveness, promising a thrilling display of golf.
The International Flavor of Augusta
Augusta National is not just a test of skill but also an international spectacle. This year’s Masters highlights its global appeal with players like Sergio Garcia, Adam Scott, and Hideki Matsuyama, all scheduled to tee off in the afternoon. These players bring a wealth of experience and international fanbases to Augusta, underscoring the global nature of the sport.
The first round of the Masters sets the tone for what is sure to be a riveting tournament. As the world’s best golfers navigate the challenges of Augusta National, each hole, from the daunting Amen Corner to the final putt on the 18th green, will be laden with drama and excitement. With so many narratives unfolding—from Scheffler’s defense to McIlroy’s quest, and the emergence of new talents—the 2025 Masters is poised to be another unforgettable chapter in golf’s rich history.