LIV Golfers Contend for a Green Jacket at the Masters

The 87th edition of the Masters Tournament has finally arrived, and like in past years, there are plenty of fascinating stories to follow throughout the first major championship of the year.

While some of the familiar storylines remain, this year’s tournament is unique thanks to the presence of 18 LIV golfers, who will all be trying to make a splash in this tournament.

The return of Tiger Woods is undoubtedly one of the most discussed stories heading into the event. However, Scottie Scheffler is looking for his second victory in a green jacket, and Rory McIlroy is searching for his first. Although there are three clear favorites, there are still many other golfers in the field who could also make a surprise run to the top.

Top Masters Tournament Storylines

1. Is Rory McIlroy Ready to Win?

Rory McIlroy has come close to winning the Masters several times before, finishing within the Top 10 five times in eight attempts, including second place in 2022. In previous years, it always felt like it was McIlroy’s year to win. Nonetheless, this year has a different feeling because he’s entering the competition in good form.

In his last five events, McIlroy finished second at the Arnold Palmer and third in the WGC Match Play, Maybe his lack of a win this year could work to his advantage at the Masters, as he hasn’t won anything recently.

Moreover, if it rains throughout the week, McIlroy’s length will certainly work to his advantage.

2. Can a LIV Golfer Take Home the Green Jacket?

This year, 18 LIV golfers will be playing in the Masters, which could make for an exciting competition. Dustin Johnson, Cam Smith, Patrick Reed, and Brooks Koepka all have a good chance of winning the tournament as former major champions. However, given that they have not played major competitions for a while, it will be interesting to see how they perform under pressure.

3. The Return of Tiger Woods

Tiger Woods is back on the golf course. There are no real expectations for him since he has played in only one tournament this year and two since last July, respectively. Despite this, it’s impossible not to be excited about Woods playing golf again.

4. The Dark Horses

While many are looking to favorites like Scottie Scheffler, Jon Rahm, and Rory McIlroy, there are several other golfers flying under the radar who could make a run at the green jacket, including Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas, Tony Finau, Patrick Cantlay, Max Homa, Viktor Hovland, and Will Zalatoris.

5. The Weather Forecast

The weather forecast for this year’s tournament is less than ideal. Rain is predicted throughout the tournament week, which may potentially cause delays or even a Monday finish.

6. The Extended 13th Hole

The lengthening of the 13th hole by 35 yards is the most significant change Augusta National Golf Club has made to the course. It will now put more players in a position to decide whether to go for the green in two or whether to lay up instead. The outcome of this decision could spell their success or failure at the competition.

Follow Mark Harris on Twitter @ItIsMarkHarris