Augusta National Announces Major Changes to Masters Tournament Format Starting in 2027

Augusta National Golf Club shocked the golf world today by announcing significant format changes to the Masters Tournament beginning in 2027, including a shift to a 54-hole competition and an expanded field that will accommodate 120 players instead of the traditional field of approximately 90. The changes represent the most dramatic alterations to golf's most prestigious major championship since the tournament's inception in 1934.

Chairman Fred Ridley explained the reasoning behind the historic changes during a press conference at Augusta National, citing the need to modernize the tournament while preserving its unique traditions. The 54-hole format will eliminate the traditional cut after two rounds, ensuring that every invited player competes for the full duration of the tournament. "We believe these changes will enhance the competitive nature of our tournament while maintaining the values and traditions that make the Masters special," Ridley stated. "Every player who earns an invitation deserves the opportunity to compete for the Green Jacket over three complete rounds."

The expanded field size addresses long-standing concerns about the Masters' exclusivity, particularly regarding international players and rising stars who have struggled to earn invitations under the current qualification system. New qualifying criteria will include the top 50 players from the Official World Golf Ranking as of December 31st, winners of PGA Tour events during the previous calendar year, and additional spots reserved for international tour winners and amateur champions. The changes are expected to bring more diversity to the field while maintaining the tournament's prestige and competitive integrity.

PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan expressed support for Augusta National's decision, noting that the changes align with the tour's efforts to grow the game globally. "The Masters has always been at the forefront of innovation in professional golf," Monahan commented. "These changes will create more opportunities for the world's best players to compete at Augusta National while preserving everything that makes this tournament special." The announcement has generated mixed reactions from players, with some embracing the increased opportunities while others express concern about altering golf's most sacred traditions.

The 54-hole format will require significant logistical adjustments, including revised television coverage and modified practice schedules. ESPN and CBS, the tournament's broadcast partners, are already planning enhanced coverage that will showcase more players throughout the competition. The changes will also impact the tournament's economic structure, with increased prize money distribution among more participants and additional corporate hospitality opportunities that could generate significant additional revenue for Augusta National's charitable initiatives.

Former Masters champions have offered varying perspectives on the changes, with some viewing them as necessary evolution while others worry about losing the tournament's intimate atmosphere. Five-time champion Tiger Woods expressed cautious optimism about the modifications, stating that "any changes that give more deserving players the opportunity to compete at Augusta National are worth considering." The modifications will take effect with the 2027 Masters, giving organizers more than a year to implement the necessary infrastructure changes.

As the golf world processes these groundbreaking changes, attention now turns to how other major championships might respond to Augusta National's bold initiative. The Masters has long been considered golf's most traditional tournament, making these changes particularly significant for the sport's future direction. With the 2026 Masters just five weeks away, this year's tournament will take on added significance as the final edition under the traditional format before golf's most prestigious event enters a new era.