2026 Masters Purse Hits Record $20 Million As Golf's Payouts Soar
The 2026 Masters Tournament will feature a record $20 million purse, tournament officials announced today. The 18% increase from 2025's $17 million payout reflects golf's growing revenue streams and competition with LIV Golf for top talent.
Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley confirmed the purse bump during his annual press conference ahead of Thursday's opening round. The winner will take home $3.6 million, up from $3.24 million last year. Second place earns $2.16 million, with all players making the cut guaranteed at least $50,000.
This marks the fourth consecutive year of purse increases at Augusta. The 2022 purse was $15 million, showing a 33% growth in just four years. Golf's major championships have been steadily raising payouts to remain competitive with LIV Golf's lucrative contracts.
Tiger Woods, playing in his first Masters since 2023, called the increase "great for the game" during Tuesday's practice round. The 50-year-old legend noted how far purses have come since his first Masters win in 1997 paid $486,000.
The announcement comes as viewership for golf's majors continues climbing. Last year's Masters drew 12.6 million viewers for the final round, up 19% from 2024. Sponsorship deals with IBM, Mercedes-Benz and Rolex help fund the growing prize money.
Augusta National also revealed plans to expand the tournament's digital coverage, including more featured group streams and augmented reality options. The club continues investing in technology to enhance the fan experience both on-site and for remote viewers.
Players arriving for practice rounds expressed enthusiasm about the increased purse. "It shows how much value the Masters creates," said world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler. "Every dollar helps when you're trying to make a career out here."
The 2026 Masters runs April 9-12 at Augusta National Golf Club. Tournament officials say they expect ideal playing conditions, with sunny skies and highs near 80 degrees forecast throughout the weekend.
