The 2026 Masters Tournament is underway at Augusta National Golf Club, with perfect April weather setting the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable weekend of golf. This year's Masters has already captured the attention of fans worldwide, featuring a star-studded field and the pursuit of historic milestones. Defending champion Rory McIlroy has taken command of the leaderboard, entering the weekend with a commanding six-shot lead - the largest margin ever recorded at the halfway point in the tournament's illustrious history.
McIlroy's impressive start positions him to become only the fourth golfer ever to win back-to-back Masters titles, joining legends Tiger Woods, Nick Faldo, and Jack Nicklaus in this exclusive club. Woods achieved consecutive Masters victories in 2001 and 2002, Faldo in 1989 and 1990, and Nicklaus in 1965 and 1966. McIlroy's dominant performance through the first two rounds further strengthens his chances, as recent history shows that five of the last six players who led by five or more strokes after 36 holes have gone on to secure the green jacket.
Among those closest to challenging McIlroy are five-time PGA Tour winner Sam Burns and 2018 Masters champion Patrick Reed. However, given that the past 14 Masters champions have all been within four shots of the lead entering the third round, their chances of overtaking McIlroy appear slim. Notably, Justin Rose, a three-time runner-up at Augusta and last year's playoff opponent to McIlroy, will be paired with Reed in the penultimate group on Saturday, making for an intriguing battle among the chasers.
For many, attending the Masters in person is a dream come true, but for those watching from home, the tournament offers an equally thrilling experience. CBS Sports continues its tradition of extensive, expert coverage of the Masters, now in its 71st consecutive year. Viewers can expect comprehensive broadcasts across multiple platforms throughout the week, including live television, streaming, and digital channels.
CBS Sports' coverage kicks into high gear beginning Saturday with the third round broadcast, followed by final-round action on Sunday. Paramount+ supplements the traditional television coverage with two additional hours of live streaming each day before the main broadcast begins. This multi-platform approach ensures fans have access to the most complete and immersive Masters experience possible.
Veteran commentator Jim Nantz leads the broadcast team, marking his 41st consecutive year covering the Masters and his 39th time serving as the tournament's host. Joining Nantz is 2008 Masters champion Trevor Immelman, who returns for his fourth year as the lead analyst. Together, they are supported by an accomplished team of golf experts and on-course reporters, including Dottie Pepper, Colt Knost, Frank Nobilo, Andrew Catalon, and Amanda Balionis.
Beyond the main television broadcast, Masters Live provides extensive streaming coverage available on Paramount+ and CBS Sports' digital platforms. This includes dedicated channels focusing on featured groups, the famed Amen Corner (holes 11, 12, and 13), holes 15 and 16, and live coverage from the practice range. These specialized streams offer fans the opportunity to follow specific players and key moments in real time.
The Masters on the Range show runs daily from Monday through Sunday, airing on CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Digital. Hosted by Kelly Tilghman, Michael Breed, Brian Crowell, Amanda Balionis, and Iona Stephen, the program delivers player interviews, field analysis, and insights from Augusta National's practice areas. This behind-the-scenes content adds depth and context to the tournament coverage.
CBS Sports also features a range of supplementary programming to enhance the Masters viewing experience. Highlights, aerial footage of Augusta National, historical clips, and in-depth interview sessions are available through Masters Live on Paramount+, CBSSports.com, and the CBS Sports app for mobile devices. These resources allow fans to engage with the tournament beyond the live rounds.
For those seeking nonstop golf news and analysis, CBS Sports HQ offers nearly 50 hours of live Masters coverage starting Monday, April 6. The free streaming network will provide on-site previews, round recaps, live leaderboard updates, and exclusive interviews with analysts like Trevor Immelman following the third and final rounds. Additionally, Shane Bacon, Johnson Wagner, and Patrick McDonald host a weekly tournament preview show streamed live on the Golf on CBS YouTube channel.
CBS Sports HQ is accessible via CBSSports.com and the CBS Sports app on mobile and connected TV devices, making it easy for fans to stay informed and engaged throughout the tournament week.
To catch all the Masters action, fans can tune in according to the following schedule (all times Eastern):
- Third Round (Saturday): Tee times start at 9:30 a.m. Masters Live stream is free on CBSSports.com and the CBS Sports app. Early coverage airs from 12 to 2 p.m. on Paramount+. The main broadcast runs from 2 to 7 p.m. on CBS and simulcast on Paramount+. An encore presentation airs from 8 p.m. to midnight on CBS Sports Network.
- Final Round (Sunday): Play begins at 10 a.m. Masters Live streaming is again free on CBSSports.com and the CBS Sports app. Early coverage is from 12 to 2 p.m. on Paramount+, with the main broadcast from 2 to 7 p.m. on CBS and simulcast on Paramount+. Encore broadcasts air Sunday at 8 p.m. and Monday at 6 p.m. on CBS Sports Network.
Additional coverage includes:
- Masters on the Range: Monday 12-2 p.m., Tuesday and Wednesday 9-11 a.m. on CBS Sports Network and Paramount+.
- Featured Groups: Coverage led by Shane Bacon, Johnson Wagner, Billy Kratzert, Brian Crowell, and Michael Breed.
- Amen Corner: Live streaming commentary on holes 11, 12, and 13 by Grant Boone and Mark Immelman.
- Holes 15 & 16: Analysis and commentary from Iona Stephen, Ned Michaels, and Geoff Ogilvy.
In summary, the 2026 Masters is shaping up to be a historic tournament with Rory McIlroy poised to defend his title in commanding fashion. Fans have a wealth of viewing options through CBS Sports' comprehensive coverage, encompassing television broadcasts, streaming platforms, and digital content. Whether watching the drama unfold on the course or following expert analysis and behind-the-scenes features, golf enthusiasts can immerse themselves fully in one of the sport's most cherished traditions.