Masters 2026 Coverage Start Time: When To Watch Today
Masters 2026 Coverage Start Time: When To Watch Today...
Golf fans across the U.S. are searching for when Masters coverage begins today as the 2026 tournament enters its pivotal weekend. ESPN and CBS will broadcast live from Augusta National, with featured group coverage starting at 9:15 a.m. ET and full television coverage beginning at 3 p.m. ET.
The topic is trending as Saturday's "Moving Day" often determines the championship's outcome. Defending champion Scottie Scheffler enters the round just two strokes behind leader Rory McIlroy, setting up a high-stakes showdown. Augusta National's iconic azaleas are in full bloom, adding to the event's visual appeal.
Viewers can stream early coverage via Masters.com, ESPN+, and Paramount+ starting at 10:15 a.m. ET. CBS takes over at 3 p.m. ET for the traditional broadcast. Tournament organizers expect record viewership after Friday's dramatic finish saw three players tie the course record.
Local watch parties are popping up nationwide, particularly in golf-centric states like Florida, Texas, and California. Sports bars report increased reservations for lunchtime service as fans plan to watch the afternoon coverage. The Masters app has surged to #1 in sports downloads on iOS and Android.
Weather could play a factor today, with a 30% chance of afternoon thunderstorms in Augusta. Tournament officials have contingency plans to adjust tee times if needed. The last weather-delayed Masters Saturday in 2023 drew 12.6 million viewers, the event's highest-rated early round since 2018.
Tiger Woods, who made the cut Friday, tees off at 1:35 p.m. ET in what could be his final competitive round at Augusta. The 50-year-old told reporters he's "playing for the fans" after multiple surgeries nearly ended his career. His pairing with rising star Tom Kim has been moved to ESPN's featured group coverage.
Merchandise sales at Augusta National have already broken records, with the pro shop reporting $12 million in Thursday-Friday sales. Limited-edition 2026 Masters hats featuring the tournament's 90th anniversary logo sold out within hours on Friday evening.
For cord-cutters, Masters.com offers four separate live streams including Amen Corner coverage and a 4K HDR feed. Viewers should note that ESPN's broadcast window ends at 3 p.m. ET when CBS takes over, requiring a channel change for traditional TV viewers.
