Masters Prize Money Hits Record $20 Million For 2026 Tournament
Masters Prize Money Hits Record $20 Million For 2026 Tournament...
The Masters Tournament announced today that its total prize purse will reach $20 million for the 2026 event, marking a historic high for golf's most prestigious major. The 12% increase from last year's $17.5 million purse comes as Augusta National continues to elevate the tournament's financial stakes amid growing competition from LIV Golf.
Augusta National Chairman Fred Ridley revealed the new figures during his annual pre-tournament press conference on Wednesday morning. The winner will take home $3.6 million, up from $3.24 million in 2025. Second place earns $2.16 million, while even the player finishing last among the 90 competitors will receive $37,000.
This announcement comes as the Masters faces increased scrutiny over player compensation following LIV Golf's emergence. The rival tour has lured several top players with guaranteed contracts and $20 million purses for individual events. PGA Tour loyalists like Scottie Scheffler had previously called for majors to increase payouts to remain competitive.
The prize money boost follows a pattern of steady increases at Augusta. The purse was $11.5 million just five years ago in 2021. Tournament officials emphasized that all operational profits go toward growing the game through initiatives like the Masters Tournament Foundation and Drive, Chip & Putt youth program.
Golf analysts note the timing aligns with renewed focus on player earnings after Tiger Woods' recent comments about the sport's financial divide. The record purse also arrives as the Masters celebrates its 90th anniversary, with organizers investing heavily in course upgrades and fan experiences.
Ticket holders and CBS viewers can expect to hear extensive discussion of the new figures during this week's broadcast. The increased payouts may influence how players approach the tournament, particularly those balancing PGA Tour commitments with LIV Golf's lucrative offers.
Augusta National maintains its tradition of not accepting sponsorships or running commercials during the broadcast. The club funds the prize money through merchandise sales, limited corporate partnerships, and its substantial endowment. Tournament play begins Thursday morning under sunny Georgia skies.
