All eyes are on Augusta National as the 90th Masters Tournament begins on April 9th. The field features 91 contestants, including six amateurs. Twenty-two first-timers will embark on their maiden journey around Augusta. 1992 champion Fred Couples leads the field this week, playing in his 41st Masters.

The Masters is special in more ways than one for golf fans. It marks the beginning of the major season in professional golf, and for the weekend golfer, it’s the unofficial start of their own golf season. As the weather turns for the better, it’s time to reconnect with friends, rekindle last season’s magic, and get back out on the course. With all the excitement The Masters brings, here are my top three reasons I’m looking forward to this year’s tournament.

AUGUSTA, GA – APRIL 08: A general view is seen of the 12th hole during the third round of the 2017 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 8, 2017 in Augusta, Georgia. (Photo by David Cannon/Getty Images)

The Familiarity

The tournament itself is renowned for its drama, strategic discussions, and results that are talked about for years. This is thanks to the familiarity of the golf course and its players, with a catalog of 89 previous tournaments to draw from. Iconic moments abound: “Where were you in ’86?” “Did you see the chip-in on 16 in ’05?” “How about that shot into 13 from the pine straw?”

You can discuss shots from decades past because every player who has teed it up at Augusta has added to its rich history, whether witnessed in person or on television. I also enjoy hearing about course design changes made to keep up with the modern game, while still honoring Augusta’s origins from the 1930s. The agronomy team is remarkable in handling weather-related challenges during the offseason, making subtle course adjustments that are often hard to spot.

With so much tournament history, we’ve seen players tackle Augusta under every condition imaginable—firm and fast, soft, or windy, adding to the familiarity and intrigue each year.

The Decisions

It’s all about course management and strategy at Augusta. As Bobby Jones said, “There isn’t a hole out there that can’t be birdied if you just think. But there isn’t one that can’t be double-bogeyed if you stop thinking.” This varies from player to player. It’s been proven that players of all skill levels can contend at The Masters—Zach Johnson won in 2007 without going for a single par 5 in two shots, while long hitters like Jon Rahm, Rory McIlroy, and Bubba Watson have also triumphed. Well-executed strategy is just the first step. Approach shots must be placed on the correct side of the hole, and putting uphill is a theme all week. Even after a perfect tee shot and approach, another challenge awaits: matching your line and speed on Augusta’s treacherous greens.

The opportunity to score well is always present, but being short-sided can quickly turn a promising hole into a disaster.

Course conditions heavily influence players’ decisions on approach shots. Historically, rain or unseasonably soft conditions have favored long hitters. Favorable weather this year could open the door for a wider range of skill sets to contend. Still, pinpoint accuracy over 72 holes is the real key to contending at The Masters.

The Gear

Seasonal April merchandise drops have become trendy in the golf world—and with good reason, as everyone is excited for this tournament. I enjoy seeing what apparel the players choose, as it sets trends for the coming year (or sometimes, shows what to avoid). Some opt for classic, traditional looks, as if headed to their grandparents’ house for Sunday dinner, while others make bold fashion statements worthy of a first date. It’s all good for the game, as we see what teams have been working on behind the scenes for their prized projects to debut before fans worldwide.

Equipment-wise, players have spent the season testing new gear or sticking with the tools that got them to Augusta. This tournament has made certain equipment legendary—and always noteworthy. Putters get a lot of attention, and with good reason. From the Maxfli Tad Moore IW-277 putter used by Ian Woosnam in 1991, to various Anser and Newport blade styles, to Phil Mickelson’s traditional blade and Adam Scott’s long putter in 2013, these clubs have become part of Masters lore.

Certain shots echo through the years — like Tiger’s chip-in on 16 in 2005, Phil Mickelson’s escape from the pine straw on 13 in 2010, or Rory’s towering draw with a 7-iron into the 15th last year. Each of these memories is worthy of discussion, both for the moment itself and the club used, cementing their place in Masters history.

It’s sure to be a thrilling week for golf fans, and I’m excited to see how this year’s tournament unfolds. Augusta brings out the best in the players and delivers some of the year’s most unforgettable moments. I can’t wait for The Masters to get underway in 2026.