Masters Runner-Up Takes Home Record $2.16 Million Payout
The 2026 Masters Tournament concluded Sunday with a historic payout for second place, as runner-up Sam Burns earned $2.16 million—the largest consolation prize in golf major history. The record-breaking sum reflects Augusta National's 12% purse increase this year, with winner Scottie Scheffler claiming $3.6 million from the $20 million total prize pool.
Burns' payout surpasses the previous Masters runner-up record of $1.98 million set in 2025. The dramatic final-round duel between Burns and Scheffler, which ended with a two-stroke margin, drove strong TV ratings and social media discussion about golf's rising prize money. ESPN reported a 14% viewership increase during Sunday's back-nine coverage compared to 2025.
The payout structure has sparked debate among golf fans, with some praising the sport's growing financial rewards while others question the widening gap between PGA Tour earnings and LIV Golf salaries. Burns, who now ranks third in 2026 PGA Tour earnings with $8.4 million, told reporters: "While you always want to win, this check helps ease the sting."
Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley confirmed the club plans further purse increases through 2030. The Masters remains the most lucrative non-team sporting event in the U.S., with its total prize pool now exceeding the Kentucky Derby ($10 million) and Indianapolis 500 ($8.7 million).
Financial analysts note the record payout reflects golf's post-pandemic revenue surge, with sponsorship deals and media rights fees increasing 28% since 2022. The second-place prize alone exceeds the entire 2010 Masters purse of $1.35 million, adjusted for inflation.
Burns' earnings will be finalized after standard deductions including caddie payments (typically 5-10%) and taxes. Georgia's 5.75% state income tax means approximately $124,000 will go to state coffers from his runner-up check alone.
The payout discussion is trending nationally as recreational golfers contrast these figures with typical club tournament prizes. Meanwhile, sports economists highlight how elite golf earnings now rival top NBA and MLB salaries on a per-event basis.
